aspirational

adjective

as·​pi·​ra·​tion·​al ˌa-spə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl 

: of, relating to, or characterized by aspiration

aspirational goals

: such as

a

: having or showing a desire to achieve a high level of success or social status

… private schools are patronised … by parents struggling to produce intelligent, clear-thinking, disciplined, polite, aspirational children …

—Katie Grant

b

: associated with or suggestive of a high level of success and social status and therefore appealing to people who aspire to such status

aspirational brands/products

aspirationally adverb

Examples of aspirational in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The details matter, even in the most creative or aspirational moments. —Perrie Samotin, Glamour, 23 Mar. 2026

Finally, Facebook groups supported by regional aurora enthusiasts can be a fount of information, tips and aspirational photos. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026

Below, in honor of her birthday, some of Brandy’s most aspirational looks. —Mecca Pryor, Essence, 17 Mar. 2026

What began as an aspirational fantasy soon transformed into something far larger, the creation of a movement. —Elisa Bocanegra, USA Today, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

aspiration + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for aspirational

• avocational
• calculational
• combinational
• computational
• conformational
• confrontational
• congregational
• conversational
• correlational
• deformational
• derivational
• educational