Definition of the word note down

The phrase "note down" is a phrasal verb in English that is derived from two separate words: "note" and "down." The word "note" comes from the Old French "notte," which means "point" or "mark." In the Middle English period, it was spelled "not" or "note," and its meaning evolved to encompass written messages, signs, or symbols. The verb "to down" has a few different origins, but in this context, it can be traced back to the Old Norse word "dauga," which means "dissent" or "opposition." This meaning was carried over to Middle English as "doon," where it began to take on the broader meaning of "to lower" or "to decrease." When these two words are combined in the phrase "note down," it creates a command to write something down or record it in some way. In the context of taking notes, "note" refers to the information being recorded, and "down" implies that it is being physically written or recorded in some way. This phrase is quite versatile and has various spellings, as well. In addition to "note down," it can also be written as "note it down" or "take note of." Regardless of the exact form, the meaning remains consistent: to record information for future reference.