Yearn: meaning, definitions and examples
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yearn
[jɜːrn ]
Definition
to feel a strong desire or longing
Yearn is used to describe a deep, intense desire for something. It often conveys a sense of longing or craving for a particular object, person, or experience. This word is commonly used in romantic contexts to express a strong emotional attachment or yearning for a loved one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| yearn |
Often used when talking about a deep, almost painful longing for something, often that is unattainable or distant.
|
| long |
Typically used to express a strong, enduring wish for something that might be distant in time or space.
|
| crave |
Generally used when referring to an intense, often physical, appetite or need for something.
|
| desire |
A more neutral term that can be used in formal contexts to express a strong wanting for something or someone.
|
Examples of usage
- I yearn for your love every moment we're apart.
- She yearned for adventure and excitement in her life.
- He yearns to travel the world and experience new cultures.
- They yearn for a sense of belonging and community.
- We yearn for a better future for ourselves and our children.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'yearn' comes from the Old English word 'iernan', which means to desire or crave.
- It has connections to the German word 'jähren', which originally referred to the passage of time and longing.
- Over the centuries, 'yearn' has evolved to embody deeper emotional desires, not just physical wants.
Literature
- Literary works often use this concept to convey the passions and inner struggles of characters, making emotions relatable.
- Many poets, such as John Keats and Emily Dickinson, explore the theme of yearning in their verses, revealing the pain of unfulfilled desires.
- Famous novels frequently depict characters who yearn for love, freedom, or belonging, adding depth to their stories.
Psychology
- Yearning can be seen as a reflection of unmet emotional needs, helping psychologists understand individual motivations.
- Research suggests that yearning can sometimes lead to creativity, as individuals seek alternative ways to satisfy their desires.
- It can also trigger feelings of nostalgia, as people long for past experiences that provided happiness.
Pop Culture
- Songs often capture the essence of yearning, resonating with listeners who relate to their themes of lost love or dreams.
- Movies frequently depict characters who yearn for connection, often leading to pivotal turning points in their journeys.
- Artworks often visually represent yearning, using imagery that evokes strong emotions and connects with viewers on a personal level.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures express the feeling of yearning uniquely, often tied to their traditions and values around love and community.
- In some cultures, yearning is viewed positively, as a motivator for personal growth and aspirations.
- Conversely, in others, it might be seen as a source of pain, highlighting the importance of balancing desire with acceptance.
Translations
Translations of the word "yearn" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ansiar
- desejar
- almejar
🇮🇳 लालायित होना
- तरसना
- चाहना
🇩🇪 sich sehnen
- verlangen
- begehren
🇮🇩 merindukan
- mendambakan
- menginginkan
🇺🇦 тужити
- прагнути
- жадати
🇵🇱 tęsknić
- pragnąć
- pożądać
🇯🇵 憧れる (akogareru)
- 切望する (setsubou suru)
- 望む (nozomu)
🇫🇷 désirer ardemment
- aspirer à
- languir
🇪🇸 anhelar
- ansiar
- desear
🇹🇷 özlemek
- arzulamak
- hasret çekmek
🇰🇷 갈망하다 (galmanghada)
- 그리워하다 (geuriwohada)
- 원하다 (wonhada)
🇸🇦 يتوق
- يشتاق
- يرغب
🇨🇿 toužit
- dychtit
- prahnout
🇸🇰 túžiť
- dychtiť
- prahnúť
🇨🇳 渴望 (kěwàng)
- 思念 (sīniàn)
- 想要 (xiǎng yào)
🇸🇮 hrepeneti
- hrepeneti po
- želeti si
🇮🇸 þrá
- langa
- sækjast eftir
🇰🇿 құштарлану
- аңсау
- тілеу
🇬🇪 მონდომება
- ნატვრობა
- სურვილი
🇦🇿 arzulamaq
- həsrət çəkmək
- istəmək
🇲🇽 anhelar
- ansiar
- desear