Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Spirit”
The biblical word “Spirit” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (ruach (Hebrew), pneuma (Greek)), where it meant “Breath, wind, divine power; God's presence and influence; human spirit as animating force”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The immaterial aspect of a person; a supernatural being; also vigor or courage”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekruach (Hebrew), pneuma (Greek)Breath, wind, divine power; God's presence and influence; human spirit as animating force
Hebrew ruach (H7307) means 'wind, breath, spirit, Holy Spirit'. Greek pneuma (G4151) means 'wind, breath, spirit, Holy Spirit'. Central to concepts of God's presence and spiritual life.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinspiritusImmaterial being; the Holy Spirit; the divine essence working in creation and human hearts
Latin spiritus (from spirare, 'to breathe') means spirit. Church theology: Spiritus Sanctus (Holy Spirit) as third person of Trinity, distinct from soul as divine energy.
Modern English
EnglishspiritThe immaterial aspect of a person; a supernatural being; also vigor or courage
From Latin via Old French c.1200. Retains religious sense (Holy Spirit, spiritual realm) and secular senses (spirit of adventure, team spirit, alcoholic spirits).