The word "or" is a conjunction used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that present alternatives or choices. It allows the speaker or writer to indicate that one option can be chosen over another. For example, when you say "Would you like tea or coffee?" you are providing two options and asking the listener to choose one.
The word "or" comes from Old English "oþþe," which meant "or, either," and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German "oda" and Old Norse "eða."