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Another example: Sycophant. I still can't get over this word.
In english it apparently means "A servile self-seeker who attempts to win favor by flattering influential people." (free dictionary)
Original ancient greek meaning, was someone who accused people publicly of even minor offenses. (it means something like 'he who reveals the (stolen?) figs')
Modern meaning, already in use in ancient times, someone who falsely accuses people, deliberately lies to blame others.
How from that we got the (completely opposite) english meaning I have absolutely no idea.
(and if you really want to stick to the roots, like with octopodes, why not say it sycophantis instead of sycophant?)
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