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

Ultimately, Newlyweds, an aspirational take on romance, landed the Friday spot. —Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 11 May 2026

The Navy’s 30-year plans are generally seen as aspirational documents, with this plan containing no clear figures for the cost of a 15-ship fleet. —Tony Capaccio, Fortune, 11 May 2026

First with the aspirational (pricey) Model S in 2012. —Brooke Crothers, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026

Appearing earlier in a frilly gown, Bob spoke to Miss Yvonne as an aspirational, not ridiculous, character. —Chris Willman, Variety, 7 May 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