---
title: ToolRouter — Agent Use Case Guide
description: Step-by-step guide for completing a task with a specific AI agent using ToolRouter.
url: https://toolrouter.com/tools/dictionary-words/use-cases/research-word-etymology/copilot
---
# How to Research Word Etymology with Copilot

Copilot uncovers the origins of programming terms without leaving your IDE. Discover how words like compile, bug, and algorithm got their technical meanings, understand whether the programming usage relates to the original sense, and add etymological context to your documentation and teaching materials.

## Setup

{"mcpServers":{"toolrouter":{"command":"npx","args":["-y","toolrouter-mcp"]}}}

## Steps

1. Add ToolRouter to Copilot MCP config
2. In Copilot Chat: "Look up the etymology of bug using dictionary-words"
3. Copilot returns the word origin
4. Ask: "Is the programming usage related to the original meaning?"
5. Satisfy your curiosity without leaving your IDE

## Example Prompt

```
What is the etymology of "compile"? How does the original meaning relate to its use in programming?
```

## Tips

- Many programming terms have fascinating etymologies worth exploring
- Understanding word origins can help you name things more precisely in code
- Share interesting etymologies in code comments for educational value
