needs

American  

[needz] / nidz /

adverb

1. of necessity; necessarily (usually preceded or followed bymust ).

   It must needs be so.

   It needs must be.

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needs British  

/ niːdz /

adverb

1. (preceded or foll by must) of necessity

   we must needs go

   we will go, if needs must

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plural noun

1. what is required; necessities

   the needs of the third world

   his needs are modest

Etymology

Origin of needs

First recorded before 1000; Middle English nedis, Old English nēdes, originally genitive of nēd need; -s ¹

Example Sentences

Whether driven by survival needs, conflict, or both, this behavior reveals a complex and sometimes brutal side of Neanderthal life.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

“There’s still a lot of work that needs to be done,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Now, Lowry no longer needs a four-leaf clover in his pocket as he tries to win his first green jacket.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Rose made 10 birdies in a closing 66 last year and he feels he needs another inspired showing on Sunday.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

“He needs to know how important this is to you. Promise me you’ll apply to Sunridge.”

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam