Synonyms for

Longing

Verb / ˈlɔ:ŋɪŋ / Another word for longing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a yearning desire

Synonyms & similar words

hungriness yearn hanker yearning long desire craving hankering yearning ache pining thirst craving coveting aspiration hope dream wish want need lust fancy passion fervor ardor

Synonyms by register

Formal

desire yearning craving aspiration

Informal

itch hankering urge jonesing

Literary

ache pining solicitude

Antonyms

satisfaction contentment fulfillment pleasure joy indifference

Common collocations

  • longing for the past
  • longing for home
  • deep longing
  • intense longing
  • a sense of longing
  • longing to return
  • longing for freedom

Word family

noun longing
verb long
adjective longing

Usage note

Longing implies a strong, often wistful desire for something absent or unattainable. It carries a more emotional and often melancholic tone than simple desire.

Example sentences

  1. Her longing for her family made her cry.
  2. I have a longing for pizza.
  3. His longing to be with his friends was strong.
  4. She had a longing for adventure and travel.
  5. The cat had a longing for fish.

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