GRANDFATHERING Meaning and
Definition
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Grandfathering refers to the practice or policy of allowing certain individuals, groups, or entities to be exempted or exempting existing conditions or regulations from new rules or requirements that are being implemented. It is a concept that grants special privileges or exceptions to those who have already established a certain status or met certain criteria before new regulations or standards take effect.
The term "grandfathering" originates from the idea of protecting or honoring the rights or privileges granted to previous generations, similar to those inherited from one's own grandfather. It acknowledges the historical precedent and allows certain individuals or entities to be treated differently than new applicants or participants.
In practice, grandfathering is commonly employed in various fields, such as law, regulations, contracts, zoning, and membership organizations, among others. For example, when changes are made to building codes, existing structures may be "grandfathered in" to exempt them from meeting the updated requirements. Similarly, in the context of employment, certain employees may be allowed to retain certain benefits or exceptions despite changes in company policies.
The principle of grandfathering can be seen as a balance between maintaining continuity and recognizing prior investments or achievements while still implementing new standards or requirements. By preserving the rights or privileges of those who have already established them, grandfathering allows for a gradual transition or adaptation to new rules without invalidating existing arrangements.
Common Misspellings for GRANDFATHERING
Etymology of GRANDFATHERING
The verb "grandfathering" originated from the noun "grandfather".
The term "grandfather" emerged in the early 19th century and is a combination of the words "grand" (meaning "big" or "great") and "father" (denoting a male parent). This usage conveys the idea of a "great" or "older" father compared to one's immediate father.
The verb form, "to grandfather", was first recorded around the late 19th century and developed from the noun. It refers to the act of exempting certain individuals or entities from new rules, regulations, or requirements while applying those changes to others. This concept is rooted in the notion of granting special privileges or exemptions, similar to how a grandfather might be exempt from certain rules or expectations due to his seniority.
Similar spelling word for GRANDFATHERING
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