Definition of the word rely on

The word "rely on" stems from Middle English and ultimately originates from the Old French word "reconter" which means to "count again" or "recount". This word itself has its roots in the Latin phrase "re numerare", meaning "to count back". In medieval times, this phrase was used in the context of checking and verifying quantities, such as items being transported or items that had been exchanged in a trade. However, over time, the meaning of the phrase evolved to express confidence or reliance in something or someone. By the end of the 15th century, the phrase "relyen" came into use in English, meaning to "place trust or confidence in (someone)". In Middle English, this term became "relyen" or "rely contouren", which later evolved into the current spelling of "rely on". The prefix "re-" in "rely" comes from the Old English word "riht", meaning "correct" or "proper", which is still evident in words like "right" and "rect". The suffix "-ly" here is derived from the Old Norse word "lyki", meaning "likelihood". It contributes an element of probability or certainty to the meaning of the word. Overall, the origin of the word "rely on" links back to ancient concepts of checking and verifying, which have evolved over time to convey a feeling of confidence, trust, and assurance.