yearn

2 entries found for yearn.
To select an entry, click on it.

yearn yearning

Main Entry: yearn
Pronunciation: 'y&rn
Function: intransitive verb
Etymology: Middle English yernen, from Old English giernan; akin to Old High German gerOn to desire, Latin hortari to urge, encourage, Greek chairein to rejoice
1 : to long persistently, wistfully, or sadly <yearns to make a difference>
2 : to feel tenderness or compassion
synonym see LONG
- yearn·er noun
- yearn·ing·ly /'y&r-ni[ng]-lE/ adverb