Added 9 October 2026
assess
/əˈsɛs/ verb
In Latin: aestimō, taxō Wiktionary
verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about assess at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
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To determine, estimate or judge the value of; to evaluate; to estimate.
He assessed the situation.
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To impose or charge, especially as punishment for an infraction.
The referee assessed a penalty for delaying the game.
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To calculate and demand (the tax money due) from a person or entity.
Once you've submitted a tax return, the Tax Department will assess the amount of tax you still owe.
Origin
From Middle English assessen, from Old French assesser, from Medieval Latin assessare, originally the frequentative of Latin assessus, past participle of assidēre, from ad (“to, towards, at”) + sedeō (“sit; settle down”). Cognate with Spanish asentar (“to settle”).
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)