Quit

/kwɪt/ verb

Definition

To stop doing something or to leave a job, place, or activity.

Etymology

From Old French *quiter* meaning 'to release, free, clear', from Latin *quietare* ('to make quiet, put at rest'), from *quietus* ('at rest, free'). It shifted from 'set free' to 'stop or leave'.

Kelly Says

Quit is secretly related to *quiet*—both go back to an idea of being 'at rest' or 'free'. When you quit something, you’re not just stopping; you’re trying to move yourself back toward some kind of rest or relief.

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