Definition of "wish" in English

noun

1. A desire, hope, or longing for something or for something to happen.

   • It is my wish that the bequest (should) be given to an almshouse.
   • make someone's wish come true

2. An expression of such a desire, often connected with ideas of magic and supernatural power.

   • make a wish

3. The thing desired or longed for.

   • My dearest wish is to see them happily married.
   • You have my best wishes.

4. (Sussex) A water meadow.

verb

1. (transitive) To desire; to want.

   • I'll come tomorrow, if you wish (it).
   • I wish it to be known that I wish them all to leave the company.
   • Anyone who wishes an aisle seat should see an attendant.

2. (transitive, now rare) To hope (+ object clause with may or in present subjunctive).

   • She hears that Miss Bigg is to be married in a fortnight. I wish it may be so.

3. (intransitive, followed by for) To hope (for a particular outcome), even if that outcome is unlikely to occur or cannot occur.

   • I wish I could go back in time and teach myself what I know now.
   • I wished (that) it would rain.

4. (ditransitive) To bestow (a thought or gesture) towards (someone or something).

   • We wish you a merry Christmas.

5. (intransitive, followed by to and an infinitive) To request or desire to do an activity.

   • Anyone who wishes to may leave now.

6. (transitive) To recommend; to seek confidence or favour on behalf of.