gerundin

Gerundin is a term used in some grammar traditions to refer to the gerund, a verbal noun formed from a verb and functioning as a noun or noun-like element in a sentence. The concept is widespread, but the exact terminology and analysis vary between languages. In English, the gerund is typically the -ing form of a verb and can occupy many of the same syntactic positions as a noun.

In English usage, the gerund can serve as the subject or object of a sentence, or as the object of a preposition. Examples: “Swimming is healthy.” “I enjoy reading.” It can take its own complements or modifiers, such as “Having finished the work, she left.” The gerund also divides into simple and perfect forms, with the perfect gerund expressing a prior action (having + past participle). Note that the gerund is different from the present participle, which forms verb phrases or adjectives (e.g., “The swimming pool is large” uses a participle functioning as part of a noun phrase).

Across languages, the corresponding category is often called a verbal noun or gerund or has a specialized form (for example, gerundium in some Romance-language grammars). The exact behavior and availability of the gerund vary: some languages use dedicated noun-like forms for action nouns, while others rely on infinitives or participles for similar functions. In syntax, gerunds frequently interact with prepositions, objects, or modifiers, enabling expressions of purpose, reason, or manner that are centered on the action itself.

In short, gerundin denotes the idea of a verbal form that behaves like a noun, most recognizably realized in English as the -ing form, but the precise usage and terminology differ by language.