long-wearing

the compound adjective 'long-wearing' is a modern english formation built from native germanic elements. the first element, 'long', derives from the proto-germanic 'langaz', which carried the dual senses of physical length and temporal duration, a meaning preserved from its proto-indo-European root 'dlonghos-'. the second element, 'wear', originates from the old english 'werian', meaning to carry or use, which evolved from proto-germanic 'wazjaną'. the '-ing' suffix transforms the verbal action into an adjectival quality. the literal logic of the components, "lasting through use," directly and transparently conveys the modern meaning of durability in fabrics or materials.

Structure: long (lasting) + wear (use) + ing (adjective suffix) - long: from old english 'lang, long', meaning 'having great linear extent, lasting a considerable time'. functions as a modifier indicating duration. - wear: from old english 'werian', meaning 'to clothe, put on, carry, use up, damage by friction or use'. functions as the core verb root. - ing: from old english '-ende', a suffix forming present participles and adjectives from verbs, indicating 'having the quality of'.