yearning

1 of 2

noun

yearn·​ing ˈyər-niŋ How to pronounce yearning (audio)
Synonyms of yearning
: a tender or urgent longing
a yearning for justice

yearning

2 of 2

present participle of yearn

Synonyms of yearning

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Noun

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Examples of yearning in a Sentence

Noun had a sudden yearning for something sweet
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Through struggle, sacrifice, and an unwavering yearning for justice, Valjean strives to complete his path to redemption and give Cosette a future filled with love and freedom. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 31 Aug. 2026 Could this trend reflect a yearning for a return to a more egalitarian America? — John Blake, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026 Langley’s voice, which is emotive but steady, seems unusually well suited to this sort of doleful yearning. — Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 16 Aug. 2026 Explorer, emphasizing the human yearning to discover and go farther. — Robert Pearlman, ArsTechnica, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for yearning

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of yearning was before the 12th century

Rhymes for yearning

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Browse Nearby Words

yearnful
yearning
yearningly
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Cite this Entry

“Yearning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yearning. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

yearning

noun
yearn·​ing
: a tender or eager longing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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