yearning

noun

yearn·​ing ˈyər-niŋ How to pronounce yearning (audio)
: 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.
This notion of yearning and desire and all-or-nothing, consuming passion has seemingly dwindled, with the fairy tale ending seemingly out of reach. Emily Rella, People.com, 27 Aug. 2025 Nyong’o conveys the show’s deeper romantic yearning in one crucial scene, when Ali changes the script to let Viola sing to her beloved at dinner. Helen Shaw, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2025 Leaning into the ridiculous beauty of both its leads, all cheekbones and blue-eyed yearning, the film is a moody and thoughtful interpretation of its literary origin. Christina Newland, Vulture, 22 Aug. 2025 As injuries mounted up, the more formulaic Arsenal became, and the yearning for someone more expressive grew. Art De Roché, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2025 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 5 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

yearning

noun
yearn·​ing
: a tender or eager longing

More from Merriam-Webster on yearning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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