v.
Pronunciation: ' o ̇ t
Function: verbal auxiliary
Etymology: Middle English oughte (1st & 3d singular present indicative), from oughte, 1st & 3d singular past indicative & subjunctive of owen to own, owe ― more at OWE
Date: 12th century
― used to express obligation < ought to pay our debts>, advisability < ought to take care of yourself>, natural expectation < ought to be here by now>, or logical consequence <the result ought to be infinity>