longing

long-ing · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A strong, persistent desire or craving, especially for something unattainable or distant.

  2. 2.

    (As adjective) Having or showing a yearning desire.

Forms

plural: longings

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    a longing look — A gaze expressing deep desire or yearning
  • •
    have a longing for — To desire something intensely

Related words

Antonyms: apathy, indifference, satisfaction
See also: desire, long, pine, yearn
Synonyms: craving, desire, hankering, pining, yearning

Etymology

From Old English langung ("longing, weariness"), from langian ("to long for"). Related to the verb "long" meaning to yearn for.