taken

The word “taken” means past participle of take. In plain terms, the past participle of "take" — also used as an adjective meaning already occupied, or (informally) charmed by someone.

“Taken” is pronounced TAY-kn (/ˈteɪ.kn̩/ in IPA).

Here is “taken” used in a sentence: “She has taken the exam three times already.”

Depending on how it is used, “taken” can be a verb and an adjective.

The word “taken” comes from Old English. From Old English tacen, the past participle of the verb take, formed with the -n ending typical of strong verbs.

“Taken” is a very common word in modern English.

“Taken” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: past participle of take.

Not quite. 'Taken' is the past participle, used with have or be — I have taken, it was taken. The simple past tense of take is 'took': I took it yesterday. So you say 'she took the key' but 'the key has been taken.' The two forms are not interchangeable.

In casual speech, saying a person is 'taken' means they are already in a romantic relationship and therefore not available to date. It mirrors the idea of a seat being taken — already claimed. It is informal and a little playful, the opposite of being single or available.

To be taken aback is to be suddenly surprised, startled or shocked, usually by something unexpected. The phrase comes from sailing, where a sudden wind could press a ship's sails back against the mast and halt it. Today it simply describes being momentarily stunned or disconcerted.