longing

noun

long·​ing ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

: a strong desire especially for something unattainable : craving

longingly

ˈlȯŋ-iŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of longing

• desire
• craving
• thirst
• urge
• hunger
• yearning

Examples of longing in a Sentence

They looked with longing toward freedom.

She cast a look of longing at the shop window.

She never told anyone about her secret longings.

Recent Examples on the Web

The animals Hujar photographed seem to be marked by a kind of spiritual deprivation and longing. — Hilton Als, New Yorker, 17 July 2026

Capturing all the emotions wrapped up in growing pains, embracing the future and longing for what was, Oseman delivers a wistful conclusion to Nick and Charlie’s story. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 17 July 2026

After Jonah’s longing gaze at a ballpark frank went viral, the Miami Marlins tracked him down and invited him back for a game full of treats. — Kyle Melnick, Washington Post, 15 July 2026

Armed with a powerhouse voice evocative of soul music’s greats, the singer-songwriter explores the many facets of longing on an album that bridges the genre’s past and future. — Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Pitchfork, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for longing

• thronging
• belonging
• prolonging

Kids Definition

longing

noun

long·​ing ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

: an eager desire : craving

longingly

-iŋ-lē 

adverb