wistfully
|wist/ful/ly|
C1
/ˈwɪstfəli/
(wistful)
longing or yearning
Etymology
Etymology Information
'wistful' originates from the English word 'wist,' which is an archaic term for 'intent' or 'wishful.'
Historical Evolution
'wist' transformed into 'wistful' in the 17th century, eventually leading to the modern English word 'wistfully.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'full of desire or longing,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that shows a feeling of vague or regretful longing.
She gazed wistfully at the old photographs.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 16:57