National Commit Day

Happy person wearing a commitment cap, surrounded by symbols of commitment, like a diploma, wedding ring, and a gym bag.. — National commit day illustration

Ah, National Commit Day! What a special day indeed. It's a day that reminds us to stay committed, whether it's to our goals, our loved ones, or even our Netflix binge-watching sessions! So, grab your commitment cap and get ready to dive into the fascinating history and meaning behind this remarkable day.

When is Commit Day?

It's national commit day on the 1st May.

The Origins of National Commit Day

Every great national day has an origin story, and National Commit Day is no exception. This delightful day emerged from the depths of the internet on May 1, 2015, like a phoenix rising from the ashes of procrastination. It quickly garnered 22 mentions online, making it a day worth celebrating year after year.

What Does Commitment Mean?

Commitment can mean different things to different people. It could be the unwavering dedication to achieving your dreams, like finally learning to play the ukulele or perfecting your macaron recipe. Or perhaps commitment, for you, means sticking with your fitness routine, even when the allure of your cozy bed calls your name.

But commitment goes beyond personal goals. It's also about the commitments we make to others. It's about showing up for our loved ones, being there through thick and thin, and reminding them that they're not alone in this crazy journey of life.

Celebrating National Commit Day

There are countless ways to honor National Commit Day, and it all depends on what commitment means to you. If you're a sports fanatic, grab your foam finger and cheer on your favorite team with unwavering enthusiasm. For the foodies out there, whip up a feast for your loved ones, showcasing your culinary commitment.

A Fun Fact to Brighten Your Day

Did you know that studies have shown that people who have strong commitments, whether it's to a cause, a hobby, or a relationship, tend to experience higher levels of happiness? So, embracing commitment on this special day may just lead to an increased dose of joy in your life!

History behind the term 'Commit'

14th century

Etymology

The term 'commit' derives from the Middle English word 'committen', which came from the Latin word 'committere', meaning 'to consign, entrust'. This term was commonly used in legal contexts, specifically to refer to the act of entrusting someone or something to the custody or care of another.

12th century

Origin in Medieval Latin

The term 'commit' has its origins in the Latin word 'committere,' which emerged in the 12th century. In Medieval Latin, 'committere' meant 'to entrust, consign, or engage' something to someone else. It was used in legal documents to refer to the act of handing over property or responsibility to another party.

1225

Emergence of 'commit'

The term 'commit' originated from the Latin word 'committere', which means 'to entrust'. This word was commonly used in legal contexts and referred to the act of entrusting someone or something to the care or custody of another. During the Middle Ages, the term 'commit' began to be used more broadly in English, particularly in legal and administrative language.

1591

Transition to a legal term

In 1591, 'commit' found its way into legal terminology as a noun, referring to the act of officially sending someone to prison or detention. It became a crucial term in legal proceedings, signifying the transfer of a person into the custody of law enforcement or correctional authorities. This evolution reflected the increasing importance of a formal legal system and the need for a specific term to describe the action of imprisoning or detaining individuals.

14th century

Development of the English term

During the 14th century, the term 'commit' began to be used in English legal documents. It retained its original meaning of entrusting or consigning something. The term gained popularity in legal contexts, particularly in relation to the transfer of property or the assignment of tasks.

16th century

Extended usage

During the 16th century, the term 'commit' began to be used in a broader sense beyond legal matters. It started to encompass actions related to entrusting, putting something in someone's care, or engaging in a particular course of action with dedication and responsibility.

16th century

Extension to criminal activities

In the 16th century, the term 'commit' started to associate with criminal activities. It became commonly used to describe the act of perpetrating or carrying out a crime. This extension of meaning further solidified 'commit' as a term synonymous with the act of undertaking an action or responsibility, whether legal or illegal.

19th century

Psychological meaning

In the 19th century, the term 'commit' gained additional psychological significance. It started to be used to describe the act of fully dedicating oneself to a specific belief, cause, or course of action, often referring to acts of loyalty, devotion, or perseverance.

1718

Expansion into non-legal contexts

By the early 18th century, the term 'commit' began to expand beyond its strict legal usage and found its way into non-legal contexts. It started being employed metaphorically to describe the act of dedicating oneself to a cause, task, or responsibility. This broader usage allowed 'commit' to convey a sense of dedication, allegiance, or perseverance in various aspects of life, beyond the realm of the legal system.

20th century

Criminal connotation

By the 20th century, the term 'commit' took on a more specific connotation in relation to criminal activities. It became associated with the act of perpetrating or carrying out a crime, particularly in phrases like 'commit a robbery' or 'commit a murder'. This usage further shaped the understanding of the term in modern usage.

1841

Inclusion in dictionaries

As the term 'commit' gained popularity in both legal and non-legal contexts, it eventually made its way into dictionaries. In 1841, Noah Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language included an entry for 'commit', solidifying its widespread usage and recognition. The inclusion in dictionaries further contributed to the acceptance and standardization of the term in everyday language.

19th century

Widespread usage in everyday language

By the 19th century, 'commit' had become an integral part of everyday language. It was widely used to describe various actions and responsibilities in both formal and informal settings. The term's versatility and broad applicability contributed to its enduring presence in the English language.

Present

Contemporary usage

In contemporary usage, 'commit' continues to have a broad range of meanings, encompassing actions related to trust, dedication, engagement, and criminal acts. The term reflects the complexity of human actions and the diverse contexts in which it can be employed.

Present

Continued usage in different fields

In modern times, 'commit' continues to hold significance in legal, social, and professional contexts. Whether committing to a decision, committing a crime, or committing to a relationship, the term remains entrenched in our language. Its evolving meanings and adaptable nature demonstrate the cultural impact and endurance of the term 'commit' over the centuries.

20th Century

Modern usage and variations

In the 20th century, the term 'commit' became firmly established in the English language, with its meaning evolving and expanding further. It acquired additional connotations and variations such as 'commitment', 'committee', and 'committed', each with their own nuanced expressions. These variations allowed for a more nuanced use of the term to describe personal dedication, group actions, and obligations in different social, professional, and personal contexts.