yearning etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English: ȝernen, from Old English: giernan "to desire, long for," from Proto-Germanic: *gernōną
  • Cognate with Old Saxon: gernian, Old High German: gerōn, Dutch: janken, German: gären, Icelandic: girna

Meaning:

A strong desire for something, especially something unattainable or difficult to achieve.

Origin:

The word "yearning" emerged from Proto-Germanic roots, where it carried the basic meaning of "to desire." Over time, the word evolved in meaning and usage, particularly in English.

In Middle English, "ȝernen" was commonly used to describe a heartfelt longing or aspiration. By the 16th century, it had become "yearning" and specifically denoted a deep and persistent desire for something that might not be easily obtainable.

The word's emotional resonance has made it a mainstay in literature, poetry, and everyday speech to convey intense feelings of longing, aspiration, and unfulfilled desires.

yearning relate terms

  • yearn

    Etymology Middle English zerne from Old English georn or georne meaning eager

  • yearning

    Etymology Middle English ȝernen from Old English giernan to desire long for fro

  • ambitious

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  • desiderata

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  • nostalgia

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  • cherish

    Etymology From Middle English cherisshen from Old French cheriss from Late Latin cari

  • want

    Etymology Want From Old English wantan meaning lacking deficient or destitut

  • languish

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  • ache

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  • each

    Etymology The study of the origin of words and their historical development Meaning Th