ache
|ache|
/eɪk/
continuous dull pain
Etymology
'ache' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'æce', where the Proto-Germanic root '*ak-' meant 'pain'.
'ache' changed from the Old English word 'æce' to Middle English forms such as 'ache' or 'ake', and eventually became the modern English word 'ache'.
Initially, it meant 'physical pain', but over time it also developed the figurative meaning of 'a strong longing' (to yearn).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a continuous dull physical pain.
I have a dull ache in my lower back.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to suffer a continuous dull physical pain.
My muscles ache after the workout.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to feel a strong emotional longing or yearning for something or someone.
He aches for his childhood home.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/11/12 13:10