begging

UK: ˈbɛɡɪŋ | US: ˈbɛɡɪŋ

Definition

  1. v. (present participle of beg)

    1. To ask for something (especially money or food) as charity or a favor.
    1. To plead or request earnestly or desperately.
Structure
beg <to ask earnestly>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The verb beg originated in Middle English (13th century), likely derived from Old English bedecian ("to beg"), which itself may have roots in Proto-Germanic bedagōną ("to request"). The -ing suffix marks the present participle form, indicating an ongoing action. The word’s core meaning of "pleading for help" has remained consistent, though its usage expanded to include persistent requests beyond material needs.

Examples

  1. The homeless man was begging for spare change outside the subway station.

  2. She kept begging her parents to let her go to the concert.

  3. The dog sat by the table, begging for scraps of food.

  4. "Stop begging and start working," the teacher told the lazy student.

  5. Refugees were seen begging for shelter after the earthquake.