1 aarchaic:wished, desiredbarchaic: wish for :wantc (1): strongly desire :wish<I would I were young again> —often used without a subject and with that in a past or conditional construction <would that I had heeded your advice>(2) —used in auxiliary function with rather or sooner to express preference <he would sooner die than face them> 2 a —used in auxiliary function to express wish, desire, or intent <those who would forbid gambling>b —used in auxiliary function to express willingness or preference <as ye would that men should do to you — Luke 6:31 (Authorized Version)>c —used in auxiliary function to express plan or intention <said we would come> 3 —used in auxiliary function to express custom or habitual action <we would meet often for lunch> 4 —used in auxiliary function to express consent or choice <would put it off if he could> 5 a —used in auxiliary function in the conclusion of a conditional sentence to express a contingency or possibility <if he were coming, he would be here now>b —used in auxiliary function in a noun clause (as one completing a statement of desire, request, or advice) <we wish that he would go> 6 —used in auxiliary function to express probability or presumption in past or present time <would have won if I had not tripped> 7:could<the barrel would hold 20 gallons> 8 —used in auxiliary function to express a request with which voluntary compliance is expected <would you please help us> 9 —used in auxiliary function to express doubt or uncertainty <the explanation…would seem satisfactory> 10:should<knew I would enjoy the trip><would be glad to know the answer>