Wish

/wɪʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A desire or hope for something to happen.
His wish is to become a doctor one day.
An expression of a desire for something.
She made a wish as she blew out the candles.
A request or command.
He granted her wish without hesitation.
verb
To desire or long for something.
I wish I could travel to Paris next year.
To express a desire for something to happen.
She wished for good health and happiness.
To feel or express a desire to do something.
I wish to finish my homework before dinner.

Etymology

Middle English 'wischen', from Old English 'wiscian', of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wish upon a star:
To hope earnestly for something.
to grant a wish:
To fulfill someone's desire.
wishful thinking:
The formation of beliefs based on what is pleasing to imagine rather than on evidence.
make a wish:
To express a desire for something to happen.
wish you well:
To express hope for someone's good fortune.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

To want something badly.
I really wish I had a new car.
Making a wish in a light-hearted context.
Wish me luck on my exam!