DictionarylongStrong desire
verb

long

To strongly wish for something.

She longs to see the mountains where she grew up.

Etymology

The Old English verb already expressed yearning or strong desire. The modern verb continues that emotional sense rather than simply meaning to make something physically longer.

More examples

  • We longed for a cool breeze.
  • He is longing for home.
  • They long for peace.

Forms

long · longs · longed · longing

Similar words

yearn
Often expresses a particularly deep or emotional desire.