forgiving
|for-giv-ing|
B2
🇺🇸
/fərˈɡɪvɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/fəˈɡɪvɪŋ/
(forgive)
pardon
Etymology
Etymology Information
'forgive' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'forgiefan,' where 'for-' meant 'completely' and 'giefan' meant 'to give.'
Historical Evolution
'forgiefan' transformed into the Middle English word 'forgeven,' and eventually became the modern English word 'forgive.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to give completely,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to pardon or excuse.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
willing to forgive; showing a readiness to forgive.
She has a forgiving nature and never holds grudges.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39