Meaning and usage of the word cue in English

The word "cue" has a fascinating history! The term originated in the 15th century from the Latin word "cogitare," meaning "to think" or "to consider." It referred to a hint or a reminder that triggered a thought or action. In the 16th century, the term evolved in the English language to describe a signal or a prompt, often used in music, dance, or theater. In the 19th century, the term gained popularity in the context of billiards, where a cue referred to a long, thin stick used to strike the cue ball. This usage likely derived from the word's earlier connotation of "hint" or "signal," as the cue stick serves as a prompt or guide for the player's shot. Today, the word "cue" has expanded to encompass a wide range of meanings, including a prompt or signal, a hint or suggestion, or even a concept or idea.