longing 1 of 3

Definition of longingnext

longing

2 of 3

adjective

longing

3 of 3

verb

present participle of long

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of longing
Noun
Love, longing, humor and nostalgia tell the story in gorgeously sung compositions. Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 25 June 2026 Carmy’s passion for cooking, along with his longing to be number one, aligns him with the sign of the ram. Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026
Adjective
Werther, in his self-delusion, embodies another Goethean type, the longing man—ordinary, but convinced of the extraordinariness of his feelings. Merve Emre, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for longing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for longing
Noun
  • But experts say higher energy costs in Europe and a desire to slow global warming fuel the air conditioning-free lifestyle.
    Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 1 July 2026
  • And yet Webster’s dictionary, and his earlier attempts at spelling reform, expressed a radical desire to forge an entirely new tongue based in the vernacular genius of the aspiring American people.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Starring Elordi and Barry Keoghan, Fennell’s dark comedy about class resentment and covetous destruction was sold on the promise of erotic excess.
    Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 9 Feb. 2026
  • For most players, that amount of storage is realistically enough for all but the most covetous data hoarders.
    Matt Kamen, Wired News, 3 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Derived from a Central African shrub, the drug's ability to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings were uncovered by accident, when Howard Lotsof, a 19-year old addicted to heroin, tried ibogaine out of curiosity in 1962.
    Gavin Escott, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • This no-bake recipe uses cornflakes, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate chips to satisfy any sweet tooth craving.
    Patricia S York, Southern Living, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • Its young people are increasingly educated and ambitious but many are frustrated over fierce competition for limited jobs.
    Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
  • Each scoop lifted tons of earth and rock as engineers raced to complete one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in history.
    Malika Bowling, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • While the dogs/chips/ice cream might still ring true, my thirst-quencher of choice has evolved.
    Melissa Knific, Bon Appetit Magazine, 2 July 2026
  • If your skin needs a hydration boost, reach for the brand's Hyaluronic Moisture formula with hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom to quench its thirst.
    Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Neither team has pressed forward with much conviction in the first 15 minutes, and after some back-and-forth passing on the back line of the Netherlands' defense, boos could be heard from restless spectators in Monterrey.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026
  • Within a few restless months, the group of strangers have become a fragile family.
    Danielle Parker, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • The idea remains fan speculation rather than reported fact, but her announcement history makes the urge to investigate understandable.
    Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 2 July 2026
  • Spontaneous and slightly chaotic, this cerebral synergy can bring surprising news or perhaps even trigger the sudden urge to break out of a stagnant situation.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Maher concluded his acceptance by noting that he’s never been too obsessed with collecting awards hardware.
    Paul Harris, Variety, 29 June 2026
  • Beyond its cult favorite status elsewhere, our shopping team remains collectively obsessed.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 23 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Longing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/longing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on longing

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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

More from Merriam-Webster