talking

UK: ˈtɔːkɪŋ | US: ˈtɔːkɪŋ

Definition

  1. n. the act of speaking or conversing

  2. v. (present participle of "talk") to engage in speech or discussion

Structure
talk <to speak>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "talking" derives from the Middle English "talken," meaning "to speak," which likely originated from the Old English "talu" (speech, story). The suffix "-ing" is a productive English morpheme used to form present participles or gerunds, indicating ongoing action. The combination reflects the continuous or active nature of speech.

Examples

  1. She was talking on the phone for hours.

  2. The teacher noticed the students talking during the lecture.

  3. Talking openly about feelings can strengthen relationships.

  4. He avoided talking about his past.

  5. The birds were talking to each other in chirps and whistles.