Wonder

Definition

Wonder refers to a feeling of amazement or curiosity caused by something remarkable or unfamiliar. It can also mean the act of questioning or pondering something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwʌn.dɚ/
• Respelling: WUN-der

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwʌn.də/
• Respelling: WUN-duh

Etymology

The word "wonder" originates from Old English "wundor," meaning "marvel" or "astonishment." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*wundran" and Proto-Indo-European "*wen," meaning "to desire" or "to strive." Its modern usage includes emotional and intellectual contexts.

Derivatives

• Wonderful (adjective)
• Wondrous (adjective)
• Wonderingly (adverb)
• Wonderment (noun)
• Wondersome (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Amazement
• Marvel
• Awe

Antonyms

• Indifference
• Unconcern
• Boredom

Usage

The term "wonder" is often used to express amazement or curiosity. As a noun: "The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder." As a verb: "I wonder if it will rain today." It can also appear in phrases like "no wonder," indicating obviousness.

Related Terms

• Curiosity: A strong desire to learn or know something.
• Astonishment: A feeling of great surprise or amazement.
• Speculation: The act of forming theories or conjectures.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of amazement caused by something remarkable: Refers to emotional reactions to the extraordinary.
  • Example: "The fireworks show filled the crowd with wonder."
• Something remarkable or extraordinary: Describes an event, object, or phenomenon that inspires awe.
  • Example: "The seven wonders of the ancient world are marvels of architecture."

Verb

• To feel amazement or admiration: Describes experiencing a sense of awe.
  • Example: "I wonder at the beauty of the sunset."
• To question or speculate about something: Refers to curiosity or doubt.
  • Example: "She wondered whether she had made the right decision."