desirous
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of desirous
First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English word from Old French word desireus. See desire, -ous
Explanation
To be desirous of something is to want it. It's like being wishful. We’re all desirous of a safe place to sleep, food, and perhaps a little bowl of candy. When you desire something, you want it. Likewise, being desirous is a state of desire, want, and craving. A thirsty person is desirous of liquid. An eager employee may be desirous of a raise and a promotion. Dogs are often desirous of people food. This word can apply to small, momentary wants or deep, yearning needs.
Vocabulary lists containing desirous
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
When it comes to heavy appliances, “the business is now strictly need-based, not desirous or impulsive,” said Marshal Cohen, chief retail advisor at Circana.
From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026
“Within a demand environment impacted by domestic and global dynamics, we see a consumer with concerns about affordability and the economy, but still desirous of homeownership,” said Chief Executive Ryan Marshall.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026
But Nelson wasn’t the only singer to launch from its desirous refrain.
From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2024
The airspace above the capital is a no-fly zone, off-limits to anyone desirous of slipping the surly bonds of Earth and gazing down at what, quite frankly, is a pretty handsome town.
From Washington Post • Dec. 31, 2022
“Mr. Wemmick,” said I, “I want to ask your opinion. I am very desirous to serve a friend.”
From "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
