resource
/ɹɪˈsɔɹs/
The word evokes a sense of utility and availability. It is the "fuel" or "toolkit" required to achieve a goal, whether that fuel is tangible (money, oil) or intangible (knowledge, patience). When used as a noun for assets, it carries a neutral, professional tone common in business and ecology. When referring to a person's inner strength ("resourcefulness"), it shifts toward a positive connotation of ingenuity and survival. As a verb, "to resource" is highly formal and predominantly found in corporate or governmental administration. It differs from "funding" by implying a broader provision of tools and staff rather than just cash.
Countable when referring to specific assets like a library, a helpful person, or funds ('We have three main resources'). Uncountable when referring to the internal quality of being resourceful and clever in a crisis ('She is a woman of great resource').
💬Casual Conversation
We're totally underwater on the Q3 project. We need another resource now.
Just pivot your workflow. Let's circle back when I'm awake.
Meanings
A stock or supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively.
"The company lacks the financial resources to expand into new markets."
A source of help or information.
"The local library is a wonderful resource for students conducting research."
The ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties; resilience.
"She showed great resource in managing the crisis while her manager was away."
Etymology
Derived from the Old French word resourse, which evolved from the Latin resurgere, meaning to rise again or spring up. The term originally referred to a source of help or a means of recovery, eventually shifting in the 16th century to describe the assets or capabilities available to an individual or entity.