want
22 synonyms and 3 antonyms for want, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To wish for or desire something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use want
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old Norse vanta, "to lack," ultimately from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "deficiency" — the same root that gives us "wane" and "wan."
Full origin of want →Frequently asked questions
What does “want” mean?
The word “want” means to wish for or desire something. In plain terms, to wish for something, or (less commonly) to be lacking something.
How do you pronounce “want”?
“Want” is pronounced wont (/wɑnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “want” in a sentence?
Here is “want” used in a sentence: “She wants a new laptop for her birthday.”
What is another word for “want”?
Words with a similar meaning to “want” include set one's heart on, wish for, would like, ache, appetize and aspire.
What is the opposite of “want”?
The opposite of “want” — its antonyms — are dislike, hate and unwant.
What part of speech is “want”?
Depending on how it is used, “want” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “want” come from?
The word “want” comes from Old Norse. From Old Norse vanta, "to lack," ultimately from a Proto-Germanic root meaning "deficiency" — the same root that gives us "wane" and "wan.".
Is “want” a common word?
“Want” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between want and need?
Want means to desire something because you would like it, as in 'I want a coffee.' Need means to require something because it is necessary, as in 'I need water to live.' You can want things you don't need, and need things you don't particularly want.
What is the difference between want and wish?
Want expresses a practical desire for something achievable, as in 'I want a new phone.' Wish often expresses a longing for something unlikely, impossible, or contrary to fact, as in 'I wish I could fly.' Wish tends to feel more hopeful, dreamy, or wistful than want.
What is an example of want in a sentence?
'They want a bigger garden.' Here want expresses their desire for something they would like to have. Other examples include 'Do you want to come with us?' offering an invitation, and 'She has always wanted to travel,' describing a long-held wish or desire.