Feeling

Definition

Feeling refers to the perception or experience of emotion or sensation, either physically through the senses or emotionally as a mental state. It encompasses awareness of stimuli, moods, and internal states.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "feel")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfiːlɪŋ/
• Respelling: FEE-ling

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfiːlɪŋ/
• Respelling: FEE-ling

Etymology

The word "feeling" originates from Old English "fēlan," meaning "to perceive by touch" or "to sense." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*felaną," meaning "to touch or feel," and has evolved to encompass emotional and sensory perception.

Derivatives

• Feel (verb)
• Felt (noun/verb)
• Feelable (adjective)
• Feelingly (adverb)
• Unfeeling (adjective)

Synonyms

• Sensation
• Emotion
• Perception

Antonyms

• Insensitivity
• Apathy
• Numbness

Usage

The term "feeling" is used to describe both physical sensations and emotional experiences. For instance, "She had a strange feeling in her stomach," or "He expressed his feelings about the situation."

Related Terms

• Emotion: A complex mental state involving thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
• Sensitivity: The capacity to perceive or respond to stimuli.
• Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An emotional state or reaction: Refers to the experience of emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, or fear.
  • Example: "Her feelings were hurt by the comment."
• A physical sensation experienced through touch or other senses: Indicates the perception of temperature, texture, or pain.
  • Example: "The cold metal gave a chilling feeling."
• An intuitive belief or impression: Refers to a gut instinct or hunch.
  • Example: "I have a feeling that something good will happen."

Verb (present participle of "feel")

• Experiencing an emotion or sensation: Describes the process of perceiving physically or emotionally.
  • Example: "He was feeling nervous before the test."