Definition

A form of a verb that ends in -ing and functions as a noun in a sentence, often representing an action or state.

Example

Swimming is my favorite hobby.

Conversation

I learned about the gerund in my English class today.

Oh really? What did they say about it?

They explained how it's a noun derived from a verb.

That sounds interesting! I want to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gerund comes from the Latin 'gerundium' (meaning a form of a verb that functions as a noun). The root 'gerere' (meaning to carry or to bear) is also present, indicating the action of carrying out the verb's meaning. Thus, a gerund is a verb form that carries the action of the verb while functioning as a noun.

Memory Tip

Think of a gerund as a way to 'carry' the action of a verb into a noun form — it helps you remember that gerunds are verbs acting like nouns.

Visually Confused Words