1
as in requirement
something necessary, indispensable, or unavoidable
on any road trip, accurate maps are a necessity
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in poverty
the state of lacking sufficient money or material possessions
two years of unemployment had reduced the family to abject necessity
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of necessity
Cutting spending wasted on a futile pursuit of a global empire is not just a fiscal necessity.
—
Ron Paul, Oc Register, 20 May 2025
According to a 2022 New York Times report, the UK's historically mild summers meant that cooling systems were never seen as a necessity.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025
Not only has the piece become a necessity for me, but the modern, all-white design is a welcome addition that adds an elevated touch to my space.
—Melony Forcier, People.com, 18 May 2025
Drinking Water Obviously, water is always a necessity, but flooding associated with heavy rains can also cause a boil order, so having something to drink is essential during and potentially after a storm.
—Maggie Gillette, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for necessity
Ron Paul, Oc Register, 20 May 2025
According to a 2022 New York Times report, the UK's historically mild summers meant that cooling systems were never seen as a necessity.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025
Not only has the piece become a necessity for me, but the modern, all-white design is a welcome addition that adds an elevated touch to my space.
—Melony Forcier, People.com, 18 May 2025
Drinking Water Obviously, water is always a necessity, but flooding associated with heavy rains can also cause a boil order, so having something to drink is essential during and potentially after a storm.
—Maggie Gillette, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for necessity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for necessity
Noun
-
During their last meeting in May, both countries agreed to exchange their requirements for a ceasefire.—
Jade Walker,
CNN Money,
2 June 2025
-
The requirement to check in 60 minutes before an international flight remains unchanged.—
Dennis Green,
AFAR Media,
2 June 2025
Noun
-
It’s been 14 years since the Census Bureau began issuing reports on poverty that factored in the cost of living.—
U T Editorial Board,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
23 May 2025
-
Notably absent is a thorough discussion of how socioeconomic factors like poverty are the underlying drivers of why some children are faring so poorly.—
Will Stone,
NPR,
22 May 2025
Noun
-
Plus, opting for styles in breezy linen is an absolute must for summer’s hotter weather.—
Jamie Allison Sanders,
People.com,
29 May 2025
-
But Tyler, the Creator believes delusion is a must for artists and creatives across the board.—
Michael Saponara,
Billboard,
29 May 2025
Noun
-
In the studio, a bad idea can be put out of its misery within a few minutes.—
Ethan Shanfeld,
Variety,
30 May 2025
-
The Athletic reflects on their 2024-25 efforts, culminating in a 14th-place finish, that caused more misery than joy.—
Roshane Thomas,
New York Times,
28 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Necessity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/necessity. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share