grudge
UK[ɡrʌdʒ]US[ɡrʌdʒ]
n
a strong feeling of anger and dislike for a person who has treated you badly, especially one that lasts for a long time
v
to do or give something very unwillingly
Etymology
The word 'grudge' entered Middle English as 'grucchen', meaning to murmur or complain, a borrowing from Old French 'grouchier'. Its ultimate origin is uncertain but is likely onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of grumbling or muttering in discontent. Over time, the meaning shifted from the act of complaining to the persistent, resentful feeling that prompts such complaints. This semantic evolution captures the essence of a grudge: a deep-seated resentment that one continues to harbor and, metaphorically, 'mutter' about internally.
Analysis
The word 'grudge' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It does not contain separable, productive morphemes in modern English.
Examples
He still harbors a grudge against his former business partner.
She grudgingly admitted that her opponent had played well.
I don't bear you any grudge for what happened.