A, as a prefix to English words, is derived from various sources. (1) It frequently signifies on or in (from an, a forms of AS. on), denoting a state, as in afoot, on foot, abed, amiss, asleep, aground, aloft, away (AS. onweg), and analogically, ablaze, atremble, etc. (2) AS. of off, from, as in adown (AS. ofd
"Besides these, there are other sources from which the prefix
a-, prefix not, without (amoral; agnostic; apetalous).
a-, prefix implying motion onward or away, adding intensity to verbs of motion (arise; awake).
a-, prefix to, at, or into a state (adroit; agree; amass; avenge).
a-, prefix.
1 from, away (abridge).
2 of (akin; anew).
3 out, utterly (abash; affray).
4 in, on, engaged in, etc. (see A(2)).
a-, prefix assim. form of AD- before sc, sp, st.