Definition of the word attitude

The word "attitude" has its roots in Latin and has undergone significant changes in meaning over time. The Latin word "attitudo" referred to a person's posture or carriage, which was later adopted into Middle English as "attitude". Initially, it referred to the physical posture or position of a person's body, but by the 16th century, it began to take on a more abstract meaning, referring to a person's mental or emotional disposition. In the 20th century, the word "attitude" took on a new meaning, particularly in the context of youth culture and popular music. It referred to a person's perception of themselves and their place in the world, including their values, beliefs, and behavior. This sense of the word is often associated with a sense of defiance, confidence, or nonconformity. Today, the word "attitude" is widely used in everyday language to describe a person's overall outlook or perspective on life.