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had wanted
  • past perfect of want.

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.

Morissette, who is originally from Canada, has since raved about life outside of Hollywood, telling local news network ABC7 in 2024 that she had wanted to move to the Bay Area since she was 21.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

The Hidden Valley team had wanted to avoid giving the job to established influencers, but made an exception after a viral campaign and added an extra duo.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

He had wanted to join the army, but was declared unfit for service as one of his arms has been disabled since birth.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

If Altringham, a bat expert, had wanted to design something that might help bats cross the road, then a bat bridge would have none of the necessary properties.

From Slate • Apr. 28, 2026

Njemile had wanted something that reflected her Nigerian heritage and would be her own.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro