noun / verb
desire
dih-ZYRE/dɪˈzaɪər/
A strong wish for something, or to want it strongly.
The student's longing gaze reveals a strong desire for the violin.
Etymology
Desiderare meant “long for” or “wish for,” the wanting expressed by this noun. Its proposed connection with stars—and the image of awaiting what they bring—is uncertain.
In context
The philosopher Senica drew a crucial distinction between a fleeting wish and a rational desire. He wrote, "A wish is a wanting of something without the reasoned judgment that it is good to have it."
More examples
- Many people desire a better balance between work and family.
- His greatest desire is to see his family again.
- She finally finds the quiet apartment she has always desired.
Forms
desire · desires · desired · desiring
desirable adjective — Worth wanting or having for its qualities.