Definition of the word wasting

The word "wasting" has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages. The verb "wastian" or "wæstian" originally meant "to destroy" or "to ravage," and was linked to the Proto-Germanic word "*westiz," which meant "to destroy" or "to consume." In Middle English (circa 1100-1500), the word "wasting" evolved to mean "to spend or use foolishly" or "to throw away or destroy." This sense of reckless squandering or misuse has remained the primary meaning of the word in Modern English. Today, "wasting" can refer to the act of spending or using something (such as time, resources, or opportunity) in a careless or unproductive manner. It can also describe a state of slow or gradual decline, as in "wasting away" due to illness or neglect.