God

Proto-Germanic *guthan — that which is invoked, or possibly that which is poured as a libation. Among the oldest words in any Germanic language. The capitalized singular God — the monotheistic deity — is a usage specific to the Abrahamic traditions.

Invoked in American political life with unusual frequency for a secular democracy. 'One nation under God' was added to the Pledge of Allegiance in 1954. 'In God We Trust' became the national motto the same decade — both additions were Cold War moves, distinguishing America from godless communism.