aspirational

adjective

as·​pi·​ra·​tion·​al ˌa-spə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce aspirational (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This obsession with Paltrow’s practices and aesthetic are a direct result of her particular brand of aspirational healthy living, which includes clean eating, natural beauty, and exercise regimens meant to restore balance and inner calm—and which extends into her living spaces as well. Joyce Chen, Architectural Digest, 12 May 2025 This is the sort of aspirational America of discovery and adventure and decency and inclusivity. Erik Pedersen, Oc Register, 10 May 2025 She's mastered the art of relaxed yet aspirational style, both with her clothing and her hair, which is almost always worn loose, long, with just the tiniest hint of third-day-of-my-blowout wave. Marci Robin, Allure, 7 May 2025 Luxury hotel merchandise — casually donned by the rich and famous, yet fervently acquired by the aspirational consumer as an IYKYK-status symbol — continues to be a hot commodity. Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News, 4 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for aspirational

Word History

Etymology

aspiration + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aspirational was in 1866

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aspirational.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aspirational. Accessed 19 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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