Meaning of the Word
Desire refers to a strong feeling of wanting something or wishing for something to happen.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A strong feeling of wanting to achieve or possess something.
- A longing or craving for something that brings personal satisfaction or happiness.
- The act of wishing for something, whether it is material, emotional, or intellectual.
History and Origin
The word “desire” comes from the Old French desirer (meaning “to long for, to wish for”), which is derived from the Latin desiderare (meaning “to wish, to long for, to desire”), composed of de- (meaning “away”) and sidera (meaning “stars” or “heavenly bodies”), indicating the longing for something distant or unattainable. It has been used in English since the Middle Ages.
Detailed Explanation
Desire can be both a motivational force and an emotional experience. It drives human behavior, often influencing decisions and actions, whether in pursuit of tangible objects, relationships, or abstract goals like success or happiness. Desires can range from basic needs (such as hunger or thirst) to more complex wants (such as fame or intellectual fulfillment). While desire is a natural part of the human experience, it can sometimes lead to frustration if what is desired is unattainable or remains unfulfilled. Healthy desire can motivate people to work toward their goals, while unbalanced or overwhelming desires may result in dissatisfaction or a sense of emptiness.
Example Sentences
- She had a strong desire to travel the world and experience different cultures.
- His desire for success drove him to work long hours every day.
- The desire for wealth can sometimes cloud a person’s judgment.
- After years of hard work, his desire to achieve greatness was finally realized.
- The couple’s desire to have children was fulfilled after many years of trying.
- The young artist’s desire to express herself led her to create meaningful artwork.
- His desire for a better future pushed him to pursue higher education.
- She felt an intense desire to help those in need after volunteering at the shelter.
- The desire to be loved and appreciated is universal among people.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Craving: A strong and persistent desire, usually for something specific, like food or an experience.
- Longing: A deep, emotional desire for something distant or unattainable.
- Wish: A simple desire for something, often more speculative and less intense than a craving.
- Yearning: An intense, emotional longing, often for something that is out of reach.
- Aspiration: A strong desire to achieve something, especially a high or noble goal.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Ambition: A desire to achieve success or a particular goal, often related to career or personal achievement.
- Passion: An intense and compelling desire, often associated with strong emotions or interests.
- Need: A basic requirement or necessity that can drive desire, such as food or shelter.
- Goal: A desired outcome or target, often driven by one’s desires and aspirations.
- Drive: The inner motivation or desire that pushes someone to take action toward achieving something.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Appetite: A natural desire for food, often driven by hunger.
- Desire to succeed: A strong drive or wish to achieve success in various areas of life.
- Lust: A more intense, often physical, desire, usually associated with attraction or craving.
- Envy: A desire for something that someone else possesses, often with a sense of longing or resentment.
- Infatuation: A strong, often irrational desire or attraction, especially in romantic contexts.
Antonyms
- Apathy: Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or desire for anything.
- Indifference: A state of being unconcerned or lacking desire or preference for something.
- Contentment: A state of satisfaction where one does not feel the need for more or desire change.
- Disinterest: Lack of desire or interest in a particular thing or activity.
- Repulsion: A strong feeling of dislike or aversion, the opposite of attraction or desire.