yearning

noun

yearn·​ing ˈyər-niŋ How to pronounce yearning (audio)
Synonyms of yearningnext
: a tender or urgent longing
a yearning for justice

Examples of yearning in a Sentence

had a sudden yearning for something sweet
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.
Rodriguez elaborated on the tension between yearning and payoff. Maddie Connors, Los Angeles Times, 12 Jan. 2026 Part of the yearning could be due to a belief that might not be true; seek within for clarity. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 10 Jan. 2026 Part of the yearning could be due to a belief which might not be true — seek within for clarity. Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 10 Jan. 2026 This year welcomes her first novel, a story of girl teenagedom and yearning, and an older male professor that takes up the centrality of the protagonist’s obsession. Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for yearning

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of yearning was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yearning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yearning. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

yearning

noun
yearn·​ing
: a tender or eager longing

More from Merriam-Webster on yearning

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