dodging
UK[ˈdɒdʒɪŋ]US[ˈdɑːdʒɪŋ]
n
The action of avoiding something by a quick, sudden movement or shift of position.
n
The act of evading or escaping from something, especially in a cunning or deceitful way.
Morpheme Breakdown
dodge
ing
dodge
to avoid
ing
noun suffix
Etymology
The verb 'dodge' first appeared in English in the mid-16th century, though its ultimate origin remains obscure. It is likely related to or influenced by dialectal words suggesting quick, jerky motion, such as the Scottish 'dodd' meaning to jog. The core concept of evading a blow or a question through agility and quickness has remained constant. The addition of the Old English noun-forming suffix '-ing' creates the gerund 'dodging,' which nominalizes the action, referring to the act or skill of avoidance itself, whether physical or metaphorical.
Analysis
Structure: dodge (to avoid) + ing (noun suffix)
- dodge: Origin uncertain, possibly from a dialectal English term meaning "to dart or move quickly." Its functional role is the core verb root meaning to avoid.
- ing: A suffix of Old English origin (‑ing, ‑ung) used to form nouns from verbs, indicating an action or its result.
Examples
His quick dodging saved him from being hit by the ball.
She was accused of dodging her responsibilities.
The boxer is known for his impressive dodging and weaving in the ring.