Definition of hiding

The origins of the word "hiding" can be traced back to the Old English word "hidan," which means "to conceal" or "to hide." This word evolved through Middle English, where it was spelled "hidyn" or "hidyng," and ultimately became "hiding" in modern English. The term "hiding" is derived from the Old English verb "hidan," which itself stemmed from the Proto-Germanic root "khedjan," meaning "to cover" or "to conceal." This root can be seen in other Germanic languages, such as German "verbergen" (to hide) and Dutch "verborgen" (hidden). The Old English verb "hidan" was commonly used in compound words that indicated hiding or secrecy, such as "hideburg" (a hiding place) and "hidgata" (a mysterious or hidden event). The verb appeared frequently in religious contexts, as it was used to describe the act of concealing oneself during prayer or meditation. The Middle English form of "hidyn" (or "hidyng") was also commonly used in compounds, such as "hidyng-plow" (a plow hidden beneath the snow) and "hidyng-place" (a concealed location). The spelling evolved over time, with "y" eventually becoming "i" and "yng" shortening to "ying" and ultimately "yinge" in the 15th century. The modern English verb "hiding" is still used to describe the act of concealing or keeping something out of sight, and is pronounced [hiD''iNG].