ought
1ought
verbal auxiliary \ˈȯt\Definition of OUGHT
—used to express obligation <ought to pay our debts>, advisability <ought to take care of yourself>, natural expectation <ought to be here by now>, or logical consequence <the result ought to be infinity>
Origin of OUGHT
Middle English oughte (1st & 3d singular present indicative), from oughte, 1st & 3d singular past indicative & subjunctive of owen to own, owe — more at owe
First Known Use: 12th century
Learn More About OUGHT
Browse
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up ought? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).








