Focus in English is derived directly from the Latin word of the same spelling. First introduced to the English lexicon around the 17th century, it meant “hearth, or fireplace” typically referring to those specifically in a church, the word carried the same definition in its Latin roots. By the mid-1600s, focus began to be used to refer more generally to a source of light or heat, and by the end of the 18th century focus as a hearth was obsolete, though it is not hard to tie its current definition back to the fires of its origin.
A hearth is traditionally a place in a home where the fire is kept. As far back as 2500 B.C., hearths can be found in homes usually at the center of the house. As the sole point of light and heat distribution locating the hearth in the middle of a home was imperative to provide heat and light to as much space as possible. The literal center of a house was also the figurative center. The location where meals would be cooked would also serve as the centerpiece for gatherings. The literal center of activity in the early home, focus pulls its current most common noun definition from the same verbiage. One of the first appearances of the word focus in this context came when German mathematician and astronomer Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) used the word to refer to the point where light passes through a lens and converges on a single point. Think of using a magnifying glass to burn grass. That brightest point, which would lead to flames, is referred to as the “place of fire”, similar to a hearth.
Though linear in its reasoning, focus as a verb did not become commonplace until the 18th century. The verb, most commonly meaning to cause to be concentrated, is derived from the noun definition and pulls traces from its historical meaning. The brightest point of light that Kepler referred to was the act of concentrating (or focusing) light so strongly that it created a reaction in a fiery way. Similarly, when one concentrates on a task, they are turning all their attention to that one point, looking to create a combustive reaction in the completion of the task for the most desirable result.
Cornell football looks to use their focus on each of their assignments this week. Each play, every rep, every homework assignment, each recovery. Keeping each task at the center of attention at its proper moment. Looking to complete each with fiery drive and precision, all to get the best result possible.
