| Word | subvention |
|---|---|
| Date | May 30, 2009 |
| Type | noun |
| Syllables | sub-VEN-shun |
| Etymology | A subvention is a form of assistance, so it should come as no surprise to learn that the term "subvention" can be traced back to the Late Latin noun "subventio," meaning "assistance." "Subventio" in turn derives from Latin "subvenire," meaning "to come up" or "to come to the rescue." (Another descendant of "subvenire" in English is the more common word "souvenir.") "Subvention" also functions as a verb meaning "to provide with a subvention." The verb "subvention" is a very uncommon word, and it has an equally uncommon synonym, "subvent." The latter was likely coined by speakers unaware that the verb "subvention" already existed. |
| Examples | The earliest documented subvention for the museum was a grant from the federal government in 1853. |
| Definition | a : the provision of assistance or financial support: as b : endowment c : a subsidy from a government or foundation |
Tags: wordoftheday::noun
Learn with these flashcards. Click next, previous, or up to navigate to more flashcards for this subject.
Next card: Philadelphia lawyer source noun fill-uh-dell-fee-uh-law-yer reputation dates back
Previous card: Spurious adjective meaning illegitimate false sense grandfather spyur-ee-us
Up to card list: Word of the Day