Longed: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to express a strong, often nostalgic or emotional longing for something, particularly something in the past or something that feels out of reach.

• She longed for the days when they were all together as a family
• He longed to visit his childhood home

Indicates a powerful desire for something, typically related to physical or emotional needs, like food, love, or certain sensations.

• I always crave chocolate when I'm stressed
• She craved attention from her parents

Can be used in a formal or romantic context to indicate a strong wish for something, often with a sense of purpose or focus. It can also refer to a less specific longing.

• He had a strong desire to succeed in his career
• Her desire for adventure led her to travel the world

Expresses a deep emotional longing or need, often accompanied by a sense of sadness or anticipation. It can imply a contemplative or soulful feeling.

• She yearned for freedom from her daily routine
• They yearned to be reunited with their family

Conveys a sense of deep, often melancholic longing for someone or something, commonly associated with unfulfilled love or loss. Has a poetic tone.

• She pined for her lover who was away at sea
• He spent years pining over his lost youth

This word is often used to express a deep, emotional desire for something over a prolonged period of time.

• She longed for the day she could return home.
• He longed to see his old friends again.

This word often implies a desire for something that may be improbable or something that one hopes to come true.

• I wish I could fly.
• He wished for better weather on their vacation.

This word is used in a general sense to express a desire for something, ranging from a small wish to something more significant.

• I want a cup of coffee.
• They want to travel the world.

This word is used when someone has an intense desire or need for something, often implying a physical or addictive need.

• He craved chocolate late at night.
• She craved attention from her parents.

This word is used when someone has a strong desire to achieve something, usually a particular goal or level of success.

• She aspired to become a famous author.
• Many young people aspire to have a successful career.

Used to express a strong, enduring desire for something that is often not currently available. It is typically used in past tense.

• She longed for the days when she lived by the sea

Shows a feeling of sadness or regret because someone or something is not present. Often used in the context of relationships or past experiences.

• I miss my family when I'm away on business trips

Reflects a strong, often wistful or melancholic desire for something, usually something out of reach or difficult to attain.

• She yearned for the simple pleasures of childhood

Indicates an intense desire or need for something, often associated with food, substances, or certain experiences.

• After dinner, she craved a piece of chocolate

Expresses a deep and earnest desire for something, often something abstract like love or freedom.

• He longed for a chance to prove himself in his new job