longing
Longing (noun) means a strong, often wistful desire for something. Example: “She felt a quiet longing for her childhood home.”
How to use longing
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA deep, often sad, yearning for something you don't currently have.
Word forms
longings plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She felt a quiet _____ for her childhood home.
Etymology
From Old English longung, langung ("longing, desire"), related to the verb "long" (to yearn).
Synonyms
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Rhymes for longing
See all rhymes for longing →Frequently asked questions
What does “longing” mean?
The word “longing” means a strong, often wistful desire for something. In plain terms, a deep, often sad, yearning for something you don't currently have.
How do you pronounce “longing”?
“Longing” is pronounced LO-ngihng (/ˈlɔːŋɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “longing” in a sentence?
Here is “longing” used in a sentence: “She felt a quiet longing for her childhood home.”
What is another word for “longing”?
Words with a similar meaning to “longing” include yearning.
What part of speech is “longing”?
“Longing” is a noun.
Where does the word “longing” come from?
The word “longing” comes from Old English. From Old English longung, langung ("longing, desire"), related to the verb "long" (to yearn).
Is “longing” a common word?
“Longing” is an uncommon word in modern English.