Give

Definition

Give is a verb that refers to transferring possession, providing, or granting something to someone. It can also mean yielding or allowing something to happen. As a noun, it describes flexibility or the capacity to yield under pressure.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪv/
• Respelling: giv

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪv/
• Respelling: giv

Etymology

The word "give" originates from the Old English "giefan" or "gifan," meaning "to bestow, deliver, or grant." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*gebaną*" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*gʰebʰ-" (to take or hold). Its meaning has remained consistent in Germanic languages, signifying transfer or provision.

Derivatives

• Given (adjective/verb, past participle)
• Giver (noun)
• Giving (noun/adjective)
• Forgive (verb)
• Misgive (verb)

Synonyms

• Offer
• Provide
• Grant

Antonyms

• Take
• Withhold
• Refuse

Usage

The term "give" is commonly used in everyday language to describe acts of transferring or providing. For example, "She decided to give her old books to charity," or "The material has some give, allowing for flexibility."

Related Terms

• Grant: To bestow or confer something.
• Offer: To present or propose something for acceptance.
• Donate: To give, especially for charitable purposes.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To transfer possession of something to another: Refers to the act of providing or delivering something.
  • Example: "She gave him a gift for his birthday."
• To allow or permit something to happen: Describes yielding or granting permission.
  • Example: "The judge gave her permission to speak."
• To produce or yield: Indicates generating or causing something.
  • Example: "The experiment gave unexpected results."

Noun

• The capacity to bend or yield under pressure: Refers to flexibility or pliability.
  • Example: "The fabric has some give, making it more comfortable to wear."