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Wanted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wanted

[หˆwษ”หntษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

desire for something

The word 'wanted' is the simple past tense and past participle of the verb 'want.' It expresses a desire or wish for something that was not attained in the past. In a broader context, it can indicate a strong feeling of needing something or someone. It can be used in various contexts, including personal desires, wishes for possessions, or longing for relationships.

Synonyms

desired, sought, wished for.

Examples of usage

  • She wanted a new bicycle for her birthday.
  • They wanted to travel the world after graduation.
  • He wanted his opinion to be heard during the meeting.
Context #2 | Adjective

being sought after

When used as an adjective, 'wanted' refers to someone or something that is desired or sought after, often because of merits or capabilities. It implies that the person or thing is in demand and can sometimes connect to feelings of necessity or urgency. In law enforcement, 'wanted' refers to individuals who are being sought for arrest due to criminal activities.

Synonyms

coveted, in demand, sought.

Examples of usage

  • The musician is one of the most wanted performers in the industry.
  • There are several wanted fugitives on the run.
  • She was a wanted candidate for the job due to her skills.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Frequently used in stories or plays to indicate a character's longing for something.
  • In classic literature, desires often drive characters' actions and plot developments.
  • The word appears in titles of famous works, such as 'Wanted: The Story of a Life' highlighting personal quests.

Pop Culture

  • 'Wanted' was famously used in the movie title featuring a secret society of assassins, showcasing themes of ambition and revenge.
  • The term appears in various songs to express desires for love, acceptance, or freedom.
  • The phrase 'Wanted Dead or Alive' signifies both search and danger in pop culture references.

Psychology

  • Desire is a primary motivator in human behavior, influencing choices and relationships.
  • The feeling of wanting can lead to emotional responses, such as excitement for goals or sadness from unfulfilled desires.
  • Understanding what we want can help establish personal identities and guide life decisions.

History

  • The 'wanted poster' originated in the Wild West era, used to inform the public about criminals.
  • Throughout history, various cultures have used unique symbols or signs to indicate wanted individuals for community safety.
  • Vintage 'wanted' notices often contained artistic flourishes, blending utility with creative expression.

Origin of 'wanted'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Old English 'wandian', meaning to 'wish for'.
  • Related to the German word 'wรผnschen', which also means to wish or desire.
  • The term evolved into its current form during the late Middle Ages, reflecting social needs.

The word 'wanted' originated from the Old English word 'wanian,' which means 'to decrease or diminish.' Over time, it evolved into the term 'wynnan' meaning 'to wish or desire.' By the 12th century, the Middle English version 'wanten' emerged, used to express wishful thinking about something that was absent. The transformation from 'wanian' to 'want' reflected the growing emphasis on desire rather than mere absence. Thus, 'wanted' represents not just the absence but an active longing for possession or relationship in both emotional and material contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

At #700 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.