wonder
A feeling of amazed curiosity; or to think curiously about something.
Word facts
Definition
Wonder (noun) is a feeling of amazement and admiration mixed with curiosity. Something that causes this feeling is also called a wonder — a marvel or miracle. To wonder (verb) is to think curiously about something unknown, or to feel amazed by something extraordinary.
Usage: To wonder about something means to be curious about it (I wonder about the future). To wonder at something means to be amazed by it (I wonder at her patience). Both uses are correct but carry slightly different meanings.
Example sentences
- 1
She gazed up at the night sky filled with stars and felt a deep sense of wonder.
- 2
He often wondered what it would be like to live in another country for a year.
- 3
The ancient ruins were a wonder — archaeologists still debate how they were built.
Word family
From Old English wundor ('miracle, object of astonishment'). The verb 'to wonder' grew from the noun. Related to 'wonderful' and 'wondrous'. The German wunder is a close cousin in the Germanic language family.
Wonder has 'wand' inside it — magicians use wands to create things that make you wonder. W-O-N-D-E-R.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
Is wonder a noun or verb?
Wonder is both. As a noun: She was filled with wonder. As a verb: I wonder what will happen next.
What is the adjective form of wonder?
The main adjective forms are wonderful and wondrous. Both mean 'inspiring wonder or admiration'.
How many syllables does wonder have?
Wonder has 2 syllables: won-der. The stress is on the first syllable.
What does 'no wonder' mean?
'No wonder' is an idiom meaning 'it is not surprising'. Example: No wonder she was tired — she hadn't slept in two days.