The word "soul" refers to the spiritual or immaterial part of a human being, often thought of as the essence of a person's individuality and consciousness. It is commonly associated with emotions, morals, and the inner self. In various cultures and religions, the soul is often believed to exist beyond physical death, signifying a person's true self.
The word "soul" originates from Old English "sāwle," which is related to the Proto-Germanic term "saiwaz," indicating a spiritual or vital force. It is ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "swe-" which means "to be," reflecting the concept of a being's essence or existence.