living

UK: ˈlɪvɪŋ | US: ˈlɪvɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. having life; not dead

  2. n. the state of being alive

  3. n. a means of maintaining life (e.g., income or lifestyle)

Structure
liv <to live>ing <present participle suffix>liv <to live>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

living = liv<to live> + ing<present participle suffix>

  • liv<to live>: Derived from Old English lifian ("to be alive"), related to līf ("life"). The root signifies existence or vitality.
  • ing<present participle suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives or nouns from verbs, indicating ongoing action or state (e.g., "running," "singing").

Etymology Origin:
The word "living" originates from Old English lifende, the present participle of lifian ("to live"). Over time, the suffix -ende evolved into -ing, standardizing the form to denote continuous existence. The root liv has remained consistent across Germanic languages, reflecting the core concept of life.

Examples

  1. She enjoys living in the countryside.

  2. Clean water is essential for all living organisms.

  3. He earns his living as a freelance writer.

  4. The painting captures the living energy of the city.

  5. They discussed the cost of living in urban areas.