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: a tender or urgent longing
a yearning for justice
Synonyms
Examples of yearning in a Sentence
had a sudden yearning for something sweet
Recent Examples on the Web
The findings suggest a blend of practical considerations and a yearning for change among residents of blue-voting states.
—Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024
Instead, the First Quarter Moon inspires feelings of generosity and yearning.
—Jennifer Culp, Them, 1 Nov. 2024
Growing up in New York City, Messina recalls seeing commercials on television for haunted houses on the Jersey Shore and yearning but unable to go.
—Kate Gibson, CBS News, 31 Oct. 2024
Despite McKenzie’s appealing, honestly felt efforts, Purdy herself feels as much a proxy for the anguish and yearning of her patients as a character in her own right.
—Guy Lodge, Variety, 15 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of yearning was
before the 12th century
Dictionary Entries Near yearning
Cite this Entry
“Yearning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yearning. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
yearning
noun
yearn·ing
: a tender or eager longing
More from Merriam-Webster on yearning
Nglish: Translation of yearning for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of yearning for Arabic Speakers
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