longing

noun

long·​ing ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

: a strong desire especially for something unattainable : craving

longingly

ˈlȯŋ-iŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of longing

• desire
• craving
• thirst
• urge
• hunger
• yearning

Examples of longing in a Sentence

They looked with longing toward freedom.

She cast a look of longing at the shop window.

She never told anyone about her secret longings.

Recent Examples on the Web

Englert and McLeod are agonizingly shocked when Anastasia and Sasha, on separate ships, hear each others’ voices for the first time in months, and realize the depths of their longing. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 10 July 2026

Route 66 has always amplified this American habit of investing machines with longing. — Harry Bruinius, Christian Science Monitor, 9 July 2026

The Intrigue, Silvia Moreno-Garcia (July 14) Advertisement For a handsome schemer in Mexico during the 1940s, love and longing may be the best way to an income. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026

History has shown us that the very celebration of our shared longing for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ensures that those values will endure. — Lonnie G. Bunch Iii, The Atlantic, 4 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for longing

• thronging
• belonging
• prolonging

Kids Definition

longing

noun

long·​ing ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

: an eager desire : craving

longingly

-iŋ-lē 

adverb