yearning

noun

yearn·​ing ˈyər-niŋ How to pronounce yearning (audio)
Synonyms of yearningnext
: 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.
So the design of this abstract red void with these extraordinary, odd, otherworldly structures, but with a glimpse of the world that is on the other side, the aspirational yearning that Max has carried with her is manifested. Jennifer Maas, Variety, 26 Dec. 2025 The song doesn’t have an overtly Christmas-y vibe, but late singer Freddie Mercury’s yearning, wistful vocals give it the feeling of sad-eyed holiday nostalgia so familiar from other blue Christmas yuletide classics. Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 23 Dec. 2025 The designer explains that the paint trend is both a backlash against cold minimalism and a yearning for cozy, enveloping spaces that boost the mood. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025 In the modern Christmas spirit, the manipulative version of what the economist Adam Smith called the invisible hand of the market meets the human yearning for structured distraction. Maria Balaska, Time, 20 Dec. 2025 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 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

yearning

noun
yearn·​ing
: a tender or eager longing

More from Merriam-Webster on yearning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!