want ad

American  

noun

1. classified ad.

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want ad British  

noun

1. informal a classified advertisement in a newspaper, magazine, etc, for something wanted, such as property or employment

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Etymology

Origin of want ad

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90

Example Sentences

In 1942, her mother spotted a want ad that said the publisher Fiction House was looking for cartoonists and encouraged her to apply.

From New York Times • Sep. 14, 2022

It was a want ad in the newspaper that started Storen’s pro path.

From Washington Times • May 7, 2020

That fall, the two-time Oscar winner shocked Hollywood by taking out a want ad in the trades soliciting acting work.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2017

It’s not an actual want ad, but it might as well be one.

From Washington Post • Dec. 9, 2016

I paid the same prices as Jim, but I would have done just as badly at three times as much, and might just as well have saved money buying second-hand through a want "ad."

From Cupid's Middleman by Lent, Edward B.