Synonym Chooser
How is the word yearn distinct from other similar verbs?
Some common synonyms of yearn are hanker, hunger, long, pine, and thirst. While all these words mean "to have a strong desire for something," yearn suggests an eager, restless, or painful longing.
Where would hanker be a reasonable alternative to yearn?
The synonyms hanker and yearn are sometimes interchangeable, but hanker suggests the uneasy promptings of unsatisfied appetite or desire.
How are the words hunger and thirst related as synonyms of yearn?
Both hunger and thirst imply an insistent or impatient craving or a compelling need.
When could long be used to replace yearn?
Although the words long and yearn have much in common, long implies a wishing with one's whole heart and often a striving to attain.
When might pine be a better fit than yearn?
The words pine and yearn can be used in similar contexts, but pine implies a languishing or a fruitless longing for what is impossible.
Thesaurus Entries Near yearn
Cite this Entry
“Yearn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/yearn. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
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More from Merriam-Webster on yearn
Nglish: Translation of yearn for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of yearn for Arabic Speakers
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