sharing
UK[ˈʃeərɪŋ]US[ˈʃerɪŋ]
n
the act of giving a portion of something to others or using something jointly with others
n
the act of telling someone about your thoughts, feelings, or experiences
v
(gerund or present participle) the action of the verb 'to share'
Morpheme Breakdown
share
ing
share
ing
Etymology
the word 'sharing' is built upon the old english noun 'scearu', which originally meant a cutting or division, particularly of a plowed field or a portion of booty. this concrete sense of dividing into portions evolved into the middle english verb 'sharen', meaning to apportion or partake. the addition of the '-ing' suffix, a prolific germanic nominalizer, transforms the action into a concept, naming the activity itself. thus, the modern abstract notion of 'sharing' retains the core logic of its ancient root: the act of creating portions for distribution among participants.
Analysis
Structure: share + ing
- share: from old english 'scearu', meaning a cutting, division, or portion. functions as the core verb/noun root.
- ing: from old english '-ung', '-ing', a suffix forming verbal nouns (gerunds) or present participles. functions as a derivational suffix.
Examples
the sharing of resources is essential for community survival.
thank you for sharing your story with the group; it was very moving.
they are considering sharing an apartment to reduce living costs.