Definition of desire
desired
;desiring
transitive verb
1 : to long or hope for : exhibit or feel desire for desire success knew that men still desired her
2a : to express a wish for : request they desire an immediate answerb archaic : to express a wish to : ask desired them to reconsider
3 obsolete : invite
4 archaic : to feel the loss of
intransitive verb
: to have or feel desire They may come if they so desire.
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Examples of desire in a Sentence
He desired her approval more than anything.
The apartment has modern amenities, a great location—everything you could desire.
She knew that men still desired her.
Origin and Etymology of desire
Middle English, from Anglo-French desirer, from Latin desiderare, from de- + sider-, sidus heavenly body
First Known Use: 13th century
Synonym Discussion of desire
desire
Definition of desire
1 : conscious impulse (see 2impulse 3) toward something that promises enjoyment or satisfaction in its attainment ridding oneself of all desires how humans process desire
2a : longing, craving teenagers' desire for independence … the inexpensive homebuilt craft that satisfy many people's desire to fly — James Fallowsb : sexual urge or appetite
3 : a usually formal request or petition for some action at the desire of one fifth of those present — U.S. Constitution
4 : something longed or hoped for : something desired You are my heart's desire.
Examples of desire in a Sentence
Desire is a common theme is music and literature.
The magazine tries to attend to the needs and desires of its readers.
Both sides feel a real desire for peace.
His decisions are guided by his desire for land.
They expressed a desire to go with us.
They have a desire to have children.
a strong desire to travel around the world
He was overcome with desire for her.
Origin and Etymology of desire
see 1desire
First Known Use: 14th century
Other Psychology Terms
DESIRE Defined for English Language Learners
desire
playDefinition of desire for English Language Learners
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: to want or wish for (something) : to feel desire for (something)
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: to want to have sex with (someone)
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: to express a wish for (something)
desire
Definition of desire for English Language Learners
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: the feeling of wanting something
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: a strong wish : a wish for something or to do something
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: a feeling of wanting to have sex with someone
DESIRE Defined for Kids
Law Dictionary
desire
Legal Definition of desire
desired
desiring
: to wish for earnestly — see also precatory
Additional Notes on desire
Courts have variously interpreted desire in wills to indicate either a direction of the testator that must be followed or merely an expression of what the testator hoped would happen.
Learn More about desire
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for desire Spanish Central: Translation of desire Nglish: Translation of desire for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of desire for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about desire
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