Meaning & Definition of word "Wish"

Wish

/wɪʃ/

noun:

  • 1. A desire or hope for something to happen.
    • Example: His wish is to become a doctor one day.
  • 2. An expression of a desire for something.
    • Example: She made a wish as she blew out the candles.
  • 3. A request or command.
    • Example: He granted her wish without hesitation.

verb:

  • 1. To desire or long for something.
    • Example: I wish I could travel to Paris next year.
  • 2. To express a desire for something to happen.
    • Example: She wished for good health and happiness.
  • 3. To feel or express a desire to do something.
    • Example: 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

desire:

A strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.

hope:

A feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.

dream:

A series of thoughts, images, or emotions occurring during sleep or an aspiration.

longing:

A yearning desire.

Slang Meanings of wish

Meaning: To want something badly.

Example Sentence: I really wish I had a new car.

Meaning: Making a wish in a light-hearted context.

Example Sentence: Wish me luck on my exam!