History of Grok in Timeline

Grok, a term coined by Robert A. Heinlein in his 1961 novel *Stranger in a Strange Land*, signifies a deep, intuitive understanding and empathetic connection. More than just simple comprehension, it involves establishing rapport and experiencing enjoyment. While the Oxford English Dictionary offers a concise definition, Heinlein's original concept is far more nuanced, serving as the book's central theme. The term gained critical attention and has since been adopted in various communities, including computer science.

1949: Tenn's story Venus and the Seven Sexes Published

In 1949, William Tenn's story Venus and the Seven Sexes was published. Tenn introduced the concept of "griggo" in the story. Heinlein considered the possibility that Tenn's concept influenced the creation of "grok".

1961: Grok coined in Stranger in a Strange Land

In 1961, Robert A. Heinlein coined the neologism "Grok" in his science fiction novel Stranger in a Strange Land. The term has a nuanced meaning beyond simple understanding, encompassing empathy and rapport, and became a subject of critical scrutiny and adoption in communities like computer science.

Stranger in a Strange Land

Check it on Amazon

1961: Origin of 'Grok' in Stranger in a Strange Land

In 1961, Robert A. Heinlein introduced "grok" in his novel Stranger in a Strange Land as a Martian term with various literal meanings like "water" or "life", but also a deeper figurative meaning related to understanding a singular reality.

Stranger in a Strange Land

Check it on Amazon

1984: Use of "grok" in computer culture

In 1984, the word "grok" appeared in computer culture. An InfoWorld columnist imagined a computer using the term, highlighting its application within technological contexts.

1991: "Uncut" edition of Stranger

In 1991, critic David E. Wright Sr. noted that the word "grok" was first used without a clear definition in the "uncut" edition of Stranger in a Strange Land, initially meaning "to drink" metaphorically.

Stranger in a Strange Land

Check it on Amazon