expedire

Expedire is a Latin verb of the fourth conjugation meaning to free, release, or unbind, and also to make ready, to clear the way, or to hasten and despatch an action or process. In classical and late Latin it covers both literal liberation (for example releasing someone from confinement) and figurative meanings such as removing impediments or preparing a task so it can proceed more quickly. The term appears in contexts ranging from legal and administrative procedures to military or logistical planning.

Etymology and descendants: expedire is the source of several Romance-language words and of English terms related to moving things forward. French expédier and Italian spedire descend from the same root, while English expedition and expedite derive from related Latin forms through French or Italian intermediaries. The associated adjective expeditus (unencumbered, prepared) also enters various Latin expressions and medieval Latin legal and military prose.

Usage and significance: In ancient and medieval texts expedire often denotes actions that reduce obstacles, liberate a person or object, or accelerate proceedings. Phrases such as expedere causam (to expedite the matter) illustrate its procedural sense, while expeditus as an adjective describes readiness or ease of movement. Though not commonly used in everyday modern Latin, the verb remains a standard reference point in discussions of Latin lexicon and in etymological notes about related Romance and English words.

Overall, expedire highlights a semantic field centered on liberation, preparation, and speed, and it serves as a linguistic bridge to several widely used cognates in European languages.