Etymology
The word "wish" has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European language, where it was expressed as "*wes-". This root is related to the concepts of "desire" and "will".
Meaning
"Wish" refers to a desire or longing for something to happen, be true, or be possessed. It can range in intensity from a fleeting thought to a deep-seated longing.
Origin
The word "wish" entered the English language through Old English ("wīscian"), which was borrowed from the Proto-Germanic word "wiskōn". The Old English form is also related to the German word "wünschen", which means "wish" or "desire".
Development in Language
Over time, the meaning of "wish" has evolved. In Old English, it primarily meant "to desire" or "to want". In Middle English, it began to acquire a broader sense, including "to wish for" and "to long for". In Modern English, the word has further expanded its meaning to encompass a range of desires, from trivial to profound.
Synonyms and Related Words
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Etymology The word wish has its roots in the Proto Indo European language where it was
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Etymology The word wish has its roots in the Proto Indo European language where it was
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Etymology is the study of the origin of words and how their meaning has changed over time
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