desire

[dih-zahyuhr]

verb (used with object)

desired, desiring 

1. to wish or long for; crave; want.

   Synonyms: fancy, covet

2. to express a wish to obtain; ask for; request.

   The mayor desires your presence at the next meeting.

   Synonyms: solicit

noun

1. a longing or craving, as for something that brings satisfaction or enjoyment.

   a desire for fame.

   Synonyms: thirst, appetite, hunger, aspiration

2. an expressed wish; request.

3. something desired.

4. sexual appetite or a sexual urge.

desire

/ dɪˈzaɪə /

verb

1. to wish or long for; crave; want

2. to express a wish or make a request for; ask for

noun

1. a wish or longing; craving

2. an expressed wish; request

3. sexual appetite; lust

4. a person or thing that is desired

Other Word Forms

• desiredly adverb
• desiredness noun
• desireless adjective
• desirer noun
• desiringly adverb
• overdesire noun
• self-desire noun
• undesiring adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of desire¹

First recorded in 1200–50; Middle English desiren, from Old French desirer, from Latin dēsīderāre; desiderate ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of desire¹

C13: from Old French desirer, from Latin dēsīderāre to desire earnestly; see _desiderate

Idioms and Phrases

see leave a lot to be desired.

Synonym Study

Desire, craving, longing, yearning suggest feelings that impel one to the attainment or possession of something. Desire is a strong feeling, worthy or unworthy, that impels to the attainment or possession of something that is (in reality or imagination) within reach: a desire for success. Craving implies a deep and imperative wish for something, based on a sense of need and hunger: a craving for food, companionship. A longing is an intense wish, generally repeated or enduring, for something that is at the moment beyond reach but may be attainable at some future time: a longing to visit Europe. Yearning suggests persistent, uneasy, and sometimes wistful or tender longing: a yearning for one's native land.

Example Sentences

Mr Baker said Sharwarq "indicated a desire to return to Syria" after his arrest.

From BBC

The desire of many fire survivors to return to their homes ran aground amid the challenges.

From Los Angeles Times

Watching Elijah enjoy himself, the women said they feel awkward broadcasting their woes to strangers when all they desire is what’s best for him.

From Los Angeles Times

If your friend shows no desire to change their behaviour and you cannot extricate yourself from each other's lives, it is important to put in place clear boundaries to protect yourself.

From BBC

What Martin can't question is the desire of those he turned to.

From BBC

Related Words

• ambition 
• appetite 
• aspiration 
• craving 
• devotion 
• eagerness 
• fascination 
• greed 
• hunger 
• inclination 
• love 
• lust 
• motive 
• need 
• passion 
• thirst 
• will 
• wish 
• yearning 

When To Use

What are other ways to say desire?

To desire something or someone is to crave or long for them. How is desire different from want and wish? Find out on Thesaurus.com.