The word of the week is “tariff”—because Trump’s tariffs are wreaking havoc on markets, provoking potential political realignments, and beginning to crunch consumers at the cash register.

Others can better explain how tariffs work (and don’t) and debate the damage they may do to whom. I’m here to tell you about the word “tariff” itself.

Word Nerd Stuff

“Tariff” comes from the Italian word “tariffa,” which itself was borrowed from the Arabic “ta’rif” (تعريف), meaning “notification” or “definition.” The Arabic term derives from the verb “arafa” (عرف), which means “to make known” or “to define.”

The word first entered European languages in medieval times, when Arabic-speaking merchants increasingly did deals with Italian traders. It referred to a schedule or list of charges imposed by authorities on goods being imported or exported.

By the 16th century, the word had spread to other European languages, including French “tarif” and Spanish “tarifa,” before making its way into English usage with its current meaning of a tax or duty on imports or exports.

A Further (Taxing) Thought

Tariffs have always been about money, but they’ve also always been about defining boundaries and asserting control. As the Arabic root suggests, tariffs are (also) a form of information.

When a tariff is imposed, it’s as much a statement as a tax: “We are drawing a boundary here. You have to pay up to play.” (Said, if you like, in your best Marlon Brando “Godfather” voice.)

Tariffs don’t just alter the flow of goods; they alter the narrative. Who’s in control? Who can impose (and absorb) the most pain? Who has to pay up to cross the border?

Ironically, the word itself has been freely borrowed for centuries, borders and boundaries be damned.