History of Grok in Timeline

Grok, originating from Robert A. Heinlein's *Stranger in a Strange Land*, signifies profound understanding through intuition and empathy, going beyond simple comprehension to encompass a deep connection and rapport. Heinlein's novel uses the term to explore themes of understanding and connection in a more comprehensive way. While often simplified to 'understand,' 'grok' implies a complete and empathetic assimilation of knowledge and experience. The term has been adopted into various fields, notably computer science, and has been subject to considerable critical analysis since the book's publication.

1949: Tenn's Concept of Griggo

In 1949, William Tenn introduced the concept of 'griggo' in his story Venus and the Seven Sexes, which Heinlein considered as a possible influence in creating the word 'grok'.

1961: Term Grok Coined

In 1961, Robert A. Heinlein coined the neologism 'Grok' in his science fiction novel Stranger in a Strange Land. The term's nuanced meaning went on to garner significant critical scrutiny.

Stranger in a Strange Land

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1961: Grok Defined as a Martian Word

In his 1961 novel Stranger in a Strange Land, Robert A. Heinlein defined 'grok' as a Martian word with various literal meanings, including 'water,' 'to drink,' 'to relate,' 'life,' or 'to live.'

Stranger in a Strange Land

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1984: Use in Computer Culture

In 1984, the word 'grok' began to be used in computer culture, with an InfoWorld columnist imagining a computer using the term.

1991: "Uncut" Edition of Stranger in a Strange Land

In 1991, the 'uncut' edition of Stranger in a Strange Land was published, in which the word 'grok' was used without an explicit definition until page 253, where it was initially defined as 'to drink'.

Stranger in a Strange Land

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