wish 1 of 2

Definition of wishnext
1
as in to impose
to offer (something fake, useless, or inferior) as genuine, useful, or valuable despite my protestations, the dreaded position of club secretary was wished on me

Synonyms & Similar Words

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wish

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb wish differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of wish are covet, crave, desire, and want. While all these words mean "to have a longing for," wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable.

wishes for permanent world peace

When can covet be used instead of wish?

The meanings of covet and wish largely overlap; however, covet implies strong envious desire.

covets his rise to fame

In what contexts can crave take the place of wish?

While the synonyms crave and wish are close in meaning, crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need.

craves sweets

When would desire be a good substitute for wish?

Although the words desire and wish have much in common, desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or aim.

desires to start a new life

Where would want be a reasonable alternative to wish?

The words want and wish can be used in similar contexts, but want specifically suggests a felt need or lack.

wants to have a family

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 wish
Verb
After the show ended, Rosa wished her niece good night. Oriana Van Praag, New Yorker, 20 Jan. 2026 During summer months, the Wyandotte Caves attract visitors who wish to explore the unique underground caverns. Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 19 Jan. 2026
Noun
On September 8, 2025—one year after the Nevada court showdown—the Murdochs reached an accord that fulfilled Rupert’s wish that Lachlan would inherit the empire. Gabriel Sherman, Vanity Fair, 14 Jan. 2026 That is the clear message from her family as Renee’s wish to the world. Deena Zaru, ABC News, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wish
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wish
Verb
  • But encountering the layers of censorship and self-censorship that impose themselves on an Arabic text in English astonished me yet again.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Jan. 2026
  • No matter the lens, the novel seems to resist it, always protruding beyond the boundaries imposed upon it.
    Amir Ahmadi Arian, The Dial, 15 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Spicy Lamb-Miso-Cumin Ramen is killer, Kani Tantanmen will please snow-crab lovers and A5 Wagyu aburasoba (brothless ramen) is a veritable buffet of rare steak.
    John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 21 Jan. 2026
  • That means each model in the range will be built to a superyacht-level standard, showcasing the kind of top-tier materials and craftsmanship that will surely please the discerning seafarers.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The Department of Justice and Ellison's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
    Christopher Cann, USA Today, 21 Jan. 2026
  • Neither the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office nor a school spokesperson immediately responded to PEOPLE's request for comment.
    Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 21 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • These miserable tiny insects inflict a vicious bite for two or three weeks.
    Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 20 Jan. 2026
  • After pulling back, Ukrainian units conduct a series of drone, mortar, and artillery strikes against their former position, inflicting heavy casualties on the Russian forces now occupying it.
    Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The same doesn't apply to any amphibians who might want to join her in the night, however.
    Phil Boucher, PEOPLE, 16 Jan. 2026
  • And the shorter length is ideal for petite shoppers or those who just want to let their ankles breathe while out and about.
    Michelle Baricevic, InStyle, 16 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Prosecutors reject that claim, saying the decision was based on the strength of the evidence, Utah law and a desire to curb speculation and misinformation in a case that immediately drew national and international attention.
    Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 13 Jan. 2026
  • Kutcher and Kunis have previously been open about their desire to keep their children's lives private.
    Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • If a player chooses not to negotiate with the Panthers, that player will be unable to sign elsewhere, unless Carolina relinquishes his rights by not offering him a tender.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 11 Jan. 2026
  • There are 23 colors to choose from, plus petite sizes S–XXL.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Cotton Essential Lay-Flat Travel Organizer A large organizer that holds skincare products, makeup, and makeup brushes is a must for both travel and everyday life, and this version lays flat when opened for maximum visibility.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 22 Jan. 2026
  • If that’s you, Wayfair’s antique-looking furniture and decor is a must-shop.
    Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wish.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wish. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.

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