Definition of the word come at

The origin of the phrasal verb "come at" goes back to the early 18th century when it was used with the meaning "approach or arrive at a place suddenly." This meaning is still in use today, as in "I came at the library just as it closed." However, over time, "come at" has also come to mean "attack or assail" someone or something, both physically and verbally. This meaning is related to the original meaning, as it still implies approaching someone or a situation with force or aggression. The exact origins of this meaning are slightly uncertain, but it is believed that it may have developed from the use of "come" and "at" separately to express hostile or aggressive actions. For example, "he came at me with a knife" or "she came at him with words" both express a sense of direct and forceful action. The use of "come at" to mean "approach or address" an argument or topic can also be traced back to the mid-19th century. In this context, it implies a direct and forceful presentation of opinion or evidence, as in "she came at the issue from a different angle." In summary, while the origin of "come at" as a phrasal verb remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, its current usage can be traced back to its traditional meanings of approaching a place or person suddenly and with forceful intent.