demand 1 of 2

Definition of demandnext
1
as in request
something that someone insists upon having agreed to the customer's demand for a refund

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in market
the state of being sought after especially for purchase a steadily declining demand for film cameras

Synonyms & Similar Words

3

demand

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb demand contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of demand are claim, exact, and require. While all these words mean "to ask or call for something as due or as necessary," demand implies peremptoriness and insistence and often the right to make requests that are to be regarded as commands.

demanded payment of the debt

When can claim be used instead of demand?

While in some cases nearly identical to demand, claim implies a demand for the delivery or concession of something due as one's own or one's right.

claimed the right to manage his own affairs

When could exact be used to replace demand?

The words exact and demand can be used in similar contexts, but exact implies not only demanding but getting what one demands.

exacts absolute loyalty

When is require a more appropriate choice than demand?

In some situations, the words require and demand are roughly equivalent. However, require suggests the imperativeness that arises from inner necessity, compulsion of law or regulation, or the exigencies of the situation.

the patient requires constant attention

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 demand
Noun
However, the actress has now reignited the dispute with a significant new demand. Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 30 June 2026 Led by Sir Thomas Lawrence’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington and two still lifes by Jan van Huysum, the sale sold 96 percent by value and 90 percent by lot, underscoring continued demand for top-quality Old Master paintings. Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 30 June 2026
Verb
That raised fears that AI processing supply may be catching up to demand. Kif Leswing, CNBC, 1 July 2026 The first note reportedly demanded millions to be paid in cryptocurrency by February 9. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for demand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demand
Noun
  • The Interior Department did not immediately respond to ABC News’ request when asked on Friday if the panels will be replaced by the July 4 holiday this weekend.
    Deena Zaru, ABC News, 3 July 2026
  • This change was implemented at the request of the state's board of education.
    Jackson Thompson OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Noun
  • Medora Lee is a money, markets and personal finance reporter at USA TODAY.
    Medora Lee, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level since May as negotiations between the United States and Iran ease financial markets.
    Max Zahn, ABC News, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • With low maintenance requirements and fast turnaround, Gripen provides an advanced and cost-effective fighter capability that is easy to operate and maintain, according to the company.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 5 July 2026
  • DAFs carry no legal payout requirement — the dollars are irrevocably committed to charity, but on no particular schedule.
    Gabriel Alin Zainescu, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
Verb
  • Afterward, competitors often deal with bloating, nausea, and dehydration, requiring hours or even days to recover.
    Jennifer Borresen, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • Finished over live heat for caramelization, the ribs develop a sticky, smoky crust without requiring a smoker.
    Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • If Washington intends to withdraw forces, assets or capabilities, allies need a roadmap and a timeline.
    Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 6 July 2026
  • Schjelderup, who assisted the second goal, too, jumped onto Haaland’s back again and pointed down at him, as if anyone in MetLife Stadium that day, or anyone watching at home, needed to know where to direct their attention.
    Tim Rohan, NBC news, 6 July 2026
Verb
  • When asked about his All-Star nod over the weekend, Joe Ryan focused on his team’s offense and the upcoming schedule instead of himself.
    Dan Hayes, New York Times, 6 July 2026
  • Darnell didn’t have an answer when asked if Acuff, Clifford and Cardwell will play against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday in the final game of the California Classic.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 6 July 2026
Noun
  • Shrimp and mussels are a must for her seafood paella, though the queen of home cooking has also used lobster in the past.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 July 2026
  • While breakfast and lunch are first-come, first-serve, for dinner a reservation is a must.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • During the first game on Thursday, the Rangers held a commanding 6-0 lead after just three innings, thanks to home runs from Joc Pederson, Langford and Jake Burger.
    Cal Phillips June 29, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 June 2026
  • Kelly Mason commands Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with a deft hand, both at her namesake Mason Vineyards and Domaine Queylus.
    Kate Dingwall, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Demand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demand. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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