neediness
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of neediness
First recorded in 1350–1400, neediness is from the Middle English word nedynes. See needy, -ness
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.
And what defines neediness, especially for families with children in college?
From MarketWatch • Jan. 29, 2026
Authorities such as James Serpell have suggested that these dogs’ neediness brings out our maternal instincts, Herzog noted.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 28, 2025
At other times, Poinsettia’s rampant neediness comes spilling out, resulting in anger or despair.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2025
The movies all showcase mothers and sons; many of them seek to untangle relationships knotted and gnarled by neediness, selfishness or cruelty.
From New York Times • Feb. 27, 2024
Cecilia could hear the neediness in her own voice.
From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan
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.
