parking

UK: ˈpɑːkɪŋ | US: ˈpɑːrkɪŋ

Definition
  1. n. the act of stopping and leaving a vehicle in a particular place for a period of time

  2. n. an area or space designated for leaving vehicles temporarily

  3. v. (gerund/present participle of "park") the action of maneuvering a vehicle into a parking space

Structure
park <enclosed space for vehicles>ing <noun suffix indicating action or result>
Etymology

The word "parking" derives from the verb "park," which originally referred to enclosing animals or goods in a designated space (from Old French "parc," meaning "enclosure"). By the 19th century, "park" evolved to describe the act of leaving vehicles in a reserved area. The suffix "-ing" nominalizes the action, turning it into a concept (e.g., "the act of parking" or "a parking lot"). This reflects the modernization of language alongside transportation developments.

Examples
  1. Parking is prohibited on this street during rush hour.

  2. The shopping mall has underground parking for 500 cars.

  3. She was fined for illegal parking near the fire hydrant.

  4. Finding parking in the city center can be challenging.

  5. The hotel offers valet parking for guests.