longing

1 of 2

noun

long·​ing ˈlȯŋ-iŋ 

: a strong desire especially for something unattainable : craving

longingly

ˈlȯŋ-iŋ-lē 

adverb

longing

2 of 2

present participle of long entry 4, long entry 5

Synonyms of longing

Noun

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

Examples of longing in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

In the exclusive first-look clip above, O’Connor artfully grapples with his longing to return to music, hugging a past version of himself playing the violin as his face bleeds from a boxing injury. — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 28 Oct. 2026

Jeanne’s longing is pitiable, but its consequences are appalling. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 26 Oct. 2026

Jeon is marvelous in the role, allowing flashes of envy, resentment, and longing to surface beneath Mi-ok’s cheerful, accommodating manner without diminishing her warmth or loyalty. — Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026

Netizens proclaimed their affection for the rattan man, claiming a combination of intrigue, longing, and confusion. — Kirbie Johnson, Allure, 23 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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