Longings Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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longings

[ˈlɔːŋɪŋz ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

feelings of desire or yearning

Longings are intense feelings of desire or yearning for something that is absent or out of reach. These emotions can be driven by a variety of factors, such as unfulfilled dreams, unrequited love, or nostalgia for the past. Longings often manifest as a deep ache or longing in the heart, a persistent yearning for something beyond one's current reality.

Synonyms

cravings, desires, yearnings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
longings	Often used to describe a deep, emotional, and sometimes melancholic desire for something unreachable or far away. She felt longings for her childhood home and the carefree days spent there
desires	General term for wishes or wants. Can be used in various contexts from personal goals to romantic feelings. She had a strong desire to travel the world His desires were simple: peace and quiet
cravings	Typically refers to a strong physical or emotional urge, often for specific foods or substances. Can also be used for intense desires. He had late-night cravings for chocolate Pregnant women often have peculiar cravings
yearnings	Describes a deep longing or strong wish, often with a sense of wistfulness or sadness over something lost or unattainable. He had yearnings for the days when he was younger and more energetic Her yearnings for true love never faded

Examples of usage

I have longings for a sense of adventure that I have never experienced.
Her longings for the peaceful countryside grew stronger as she lived in the bustling city.
The painting evoked longings for a place I had never been but felt strangely familiar.
His longings for success drove him to work tirelessly towards his goals.
The music stirred up longings for a time when life seemed simpler and more carefree.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'longings'

The word 'longings' originated from the verb 'long' in the late 16th century, which meant 'to yearn for' or 'to desire greatly'. Over time, 'longings' evolved to specifically refer to intense feelings of desire or yearning. The concept of longing has been explored in literature, art, and music throughout history, reflecting the universal human experience of yearning for something beyond reach.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,028, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21025 vagrant
21026 buckles
21027 reclassification
21028 longings
21029 slippage
21030 mussel
21031 inept
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