yearning

noun

yearn·​ing ˈyər-niŋ How to pronounce yearning (audio)
Synonyms of yearning
: a tender or urgent longing
a yearning for justice

Examples of yearning in a Sentence

had a sudden yearning for something sweet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Your yearnings whet the underside of her tongue, as familiar as the thrum of her own pulse. Literary Hub, 25 June 2026 But not everyone might need the CBC to feed their yearnings for archival footage. Julian McKenzie, New York Times, 25 June 2026 Her desire to promote her Protestant faith, along with a yearning to expand England’s political authority, helped fuel a vicious campaign to take control of Ireland, where the Reformation’s teachings had not taken hold. Peter C. Mancall, The Conversation, 24 June 2026 Post-pandemic, Americans have been actively searching for ways to reconnect in person, with the New York Times documenting a widespread yearning for socialization that has reshaped how people spend their free time. Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for yearning

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of yearning was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yearning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yearning. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

yearning

noun
yearn·​ing
: a tender or eager longing

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