| 词源 |
customer. Customer first meant one who acquired ownership of a house after long use or possession, the word deriving from the Latin custodia, “guarding or keeping.” Customer also meant a common prostitute in the early 17th century and was used by Shakespeare twice in this sense. By the end of the 15th century it took on its meaning of “one who frequents any place for the sake of purchasing.” In this sense, it probably derived from the long-standing satisfied tenant who became an owner, the first customers giving all their business and allegiance to one mer- chant in early times. |