Definition of the word see out

The phrase "see out" is a nautical term that originally referred to the process of guiding a ship out of a harbor until it was no longer visible. The term "see out" can be traced back to the 18th century when sailors would use the phrase while navigating the English Channel, a dangerous body of water with many shoals, rocks, and sandbars. The word "see" in "see out" is derived from the Old English word "seēwan," which meant "to look at or perceive." The object of the verb "to see" in this case is "out," which is derived from the Old English word "ūtan," meaning "outside." By the 19th century, "see out" had acquired a broader meaning and came to refer to any process of guiding or helping an individual through the end of their life, in particular the end of a prolonged illness. Nowadays, it is commonly used to describe the act of accompanying someone to the end of their life while providing comfort, care, and emotional support. The origins of the nautical meaning of "see out" reflect the important role played by seafaring in maritime cultures and the special relationship between sailors and the sea. It also highlights the importance of clear and effective communication in the difficult and often dangerous situations sailors encounter while navigating the waters. In summary, the origin of the word "see out" can be traced back to its nautical roots, where it referred to the process of guiding a ship safely out of a harbor. Over time, it has broadened to describe a more personal and emotional process of providing end-of-life care and support.