yearn
verb (used without object)
to have an earnest or strong desire; long.
was yearning
-
past progressiveof yearn.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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 he opened up to Louise, he realised he'd missed "what she was yearning" -holding her hand and listening to her.
From BBC ● Dec. 28, 2025
“We knew that our community was yearning for a way to come together, yearning for a way to show their support,” Smith said of their first event.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 27, 2024
“I think the city was yearning for someone they could believe in,” Mr. Harris told The Washington Times.
From Washington Times ● Sep. 6, 2023
Much of the world had just gone through the challenges of war, and was yearning for something fresh and encouraging.
From Salon ● Aug. 27, 2022
He knew that Buddy was yearning to be with him, aching to share his confidence; but that could not happen now.
From "Native Son" by Richard Wright
