wishing
Meaning
(present participle) having or expressing a desire for something that is not easily attainable or that is unlikely to happen.
(present participle) expressing a hope that someone has happiness or success.
Structure
Usage
she closed her eyes, wishing for a miracle.
i am wishing you all the best in your new career.
he sat by the fountain, lost in wishing.
Etymology
The verb 'wish' originates from the Old English wyscan, which is of Germanic origin and related to German wünschen. Its core meaning of expressing a desire or longing has remained remarkably consistent. The addition of the suffix '-ing', derived from Old English present participle forms, transforms the verb into its participial or gerund form, indicating an ongoing action or state of desiring. Thus, 'wishing' linguistically captures the continuous act of harboring or voicing a hope.
Analysis
wish (old english: wyscan, meaning to wish, desire, long for); ing (old english: -ende, -ung, present participle and verbal noun suffix).