Definition of sigh

The origin of the word "sigh" can be traced back to the Old English "sægan," which had various meanings, including "to say," "to judge," and "to breathe." Over time, the meaning of the word evolved and came to refer specifically to the sound of breathing out in a contemplative or melancholic manner. By the Middle English period (around 1100-1500 AD), the word "sigh" had taken on its modern meaning of "an expression of deep breathing, as in resignation or exhaustion." And while the pronunciation of the word has changed over the centuries, the meaning has remained consistent. Some linguists suggest that the evolution of the word "sigh" may be related to the Old English "segan," another word with similar origins that came to mean "to declare" or "to assert." In this sense, a sigh might be seen as a way of silently declaring one's thoughts or emotions. Overall, the etymology of "sigh" provides a fascinating window into the rich and complex development of the English language, illustrating the ways in which words can change and evolve over time while still preserving their essential meaning.