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

Relevance
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

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
As startups, luxury brands and global companies continue to relocate to South Florida, the demand for marketing agencies that can respond quickly while maintaining quality has surged. Felysha Walker, Miami Herald, 13 Mar. 2026 By avoiding expensive, exotic materials, Ursa Major has created a scalable solution specifically built to meet the high-volume demands of modern conflict. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
Now, the warehouse club is facing a lawsuit demanding that those refunds be funneled back into shoppers’ pocketbooks. Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 13 Mar. 2026 But flat circumstances do not automatically demand flat art. Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for demand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demand
Noun
  • The Fort Worth City Council at its meeting on Tuesday, March 10 approved a request from Oncor Electric to upgrade and expand a substation in southeast Fort Worth, despite concerns from neighborhood residents.
    Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
    JOSHUA GOODMAN THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 11 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Phillips 66 in Wilmington shuttered in December, blaming market dynamics.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2026
  • Despite the prevalence of readily available information on pricing and market fluctuations as well as details that make some watches stand out, everyone agreed the excitement around collecting is still alive and well.
    Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 13 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The suit, filed in Sacramento federal court, argues California’s requirement that all new vehicles sold in the state be zero-emission by 2035 improperly regulates fuel economy — an area the administration says falls under the authority of the federal National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
    Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Trump signed into law the first reconciliation bill passed by this Congress last year, extending his tax cuts, funding immigration enforcement, and strengthening work requirements for certain federal social welfare programs.
    W. James Antle III, The Washington Examiner, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Approving or rejecting candidates from Washington requires a functioning political process, a legitimate transitional authority and a population willing to accept an American imprimatur on their leadership — none of which exists.
    Farah N. Jan, The Conversation, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Rodriguez Gutierrez was under a supervisory order and required to periodically check in with an immigration officer or face deportation for failing to report, according to De Bremaeker.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Sesame’s clinicians will also stay with the patient throughout any IMI RMA procedures to help translate medical terminology, provide emotional support, and offer any other care coordination needed.
    Anna Moeslein, Glamour, 9 Mar. 2026
  • Any efforts to improve your living space may need to be run by other people, like a roommate or landlord.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 9 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Those employees, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of retribution, described being asked a wide range of questions about government contracts and campaign donations.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Medvedev, already up one set, asked chair umpire Aurelie Tourte for a video review.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • However, the tacos at Carnicería Estrella—an equally aesthetic spot that’s all white tiles and red details and can also be found in CDMX—are just as delicious, while Tacos Primo in El Centro is an absolute must.
    Lauren Cocking, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Of course, there's the classic cobra pose (a must in snake yoga).
    Deena Prichep, NPR, 11 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The back line compresses space, the midfield disrupts passing lanes and Ferree has commanded his box with composure beyond his years.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Lincoln’s overall forte is a commanding road presence.
    James Raia, Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Demand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demand. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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