KJV Dictionary Definition: wish

wish

WISH, v.i. G.

1. To have a desire, or strong desire, either for what is or is not supposed to be obtainable. It usually expresses less than long; but sometimes it denotes to long or wise earnestly. We often wise for what is not obtainable.

This is as good an argument as an antiquary could wish for.

They have more than heart could wish. Psalm 73.

I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper. 3 John 2.

They cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day. Acts 27.

2. To be disposed or inclined; as, to wish well to anothers affairs.

3. It sometimes partakes of hope or fear. I wish the event may prove fortunate, or less calamitous than we apprehend.

WISH, v.t.

1. To desire. I wish your prosperity.

Let them be driven backward and put to shame, that wish me evil. Psalm 40.

2. To long for; to desire eagerly or ardently. It has this sense when expressed with emphasis.

3. To recommend by wishing.

I would not wish them to a fairer death.

4. To imprecate; as, to wish curses on an enemy.

5. To ask; to express desire.

WISH, n.

1. Desire; sometimes, eager desire. Job 33.

2. Desire expressed.

Blisterd be thy tongue for such a wish.

3. Thing desired. He has his wish.

The difference between wish and desire seems to be, that desire is directed to what is obtainable, and a wish may be directed to what is obtainable or not.

wished

WISHED, pp. Desired; or ardently desired.

wishful

WISHFUL, a.

1. Having desire, or ardent desire.

2. Showing desire; as wishful eyes.

3. Desirable; exciting wishes. Bad.

wishing

WISHING, ppr. Desiring.