Wished: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'wyssian,' meaning to wish or desire.
• It is related to the German word 'wünschen,' which also means to wish for something.
• Over time, the meaning has evolved to express not just desire, but also hopes and dreams.

Cultural Traditions

• Many cultures celebrate making wishes on special occasions, like blowing out birthday candles or tossing coins into a fountain.
• In some folklore, it's believed that if you wish on a falling star, your wish will come true.
• In Japan, people write wishes on wooden plaques called 'ema' and hang them at shrines.

Psychology

• Wishing can be a way to express desires that reflect our hopes and aspirations.
• Studies show that wishing often occurs when people feel a strong emotional pull towards achieving something.
• Making wishes can stimulate positive emotions, leading to improved mental health.

Literature

• Wishes are a common theme in fairy tales, often leading to adventures, misfortunes, or lessons learned, like in 'Aladdin.'
• In Shakespeare's play 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' characters frequently express their wishes, showing the contrast between dreams and reality.
• The concept of wishing is explored in various poems, symbolizing hope, longing, and the human experience.

Pop Culture

• Songs like 'I Wish' by Stevie Wonder express deep yearnings tied to personal experiences and dreams.
• Movies like 'The Wish Dragon' explore the idea of wishes coming to life through magical adventures.
• Wishing wells are a popular symbol in various movies and stories, often linked with magical or transformative experiences.

At position #2,772, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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