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Yearning

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. A deep, intense longing or desire for something or someone.
2. An emotional state of wanting something that is often difficult or impossible to obtain.
3. A persistent feeling of desire or craving, especially for something unattainable or distant.

History and Origin

The word “yearning” comes from the Old English geornian, which means “to desire eagerly.” It is rooted in the Germanic languages and has been used in English since the 14th century. Over time, it has come to describe not only a strong desire but also a sense of emotional or physical longing for something far off or out of reach. The term has been used in literature and poetry to convey feelings of deep emotional need or wistful longing.

Detailed Explanation

“Yearning” refers to a strong, often melancholic desire for something that may be unattainable or distant. It can relate to physical objects, experiences, or emotional connections. People often experience yearning for things that are out of their control, such as love, success, or a sense of fulfillment. This feeling can be both hopeful and sorrowful, as it is typically driven by a recognition of the distance between one’s desire and the ability to fulfill it. Yearning can be deeply personal and is often associated with longing for lost opportunities, people, or places. It may also reflect a deep-seated desire for change or improvement in one’s life.

Example Sentences

1. She had a yearning to travel the world and experience new cultures.
2. His yearning for home became stronger the longer he stayed abroad.
3. The artist’s work was driven by a yearning for beauty and truth.
4. After years of living in the city, he felt a yearning for the quiet of the countryside.
5. He was consumed by a yearning for success and recognition in his career.
6. The yearning for a lost love still lingered in her heart.
7. As the years passed, their yearning for peace in the world only grew.
8. There was a yearning in his eyes whenever he spoke of his childhood home.
9. The yearning for adventure led them to embark on a daring journey across the seas.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Longing – A deep desire, often accompanied by a sense of sadness or wistfulness.
2. Craving – A strong, intense desire, often for something specific or tangible.
3. Desire – A general feeling of wanting something, which may or may not be urgent.
4. Pining – A form of longing that is often related to sadness or loss.
5. Hankering – A persistent, often unfulfilled desire or craving for something.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Nostalgia – A sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, often connected to yearning.
2. Aspiration – A strong desire to achieve or attain something, usually of great importance.
3. Unrequited – Describes feelings of longing or yearning that are not reciprocated, especially in relationships.
4. Restlessness – A sense of dissatisfaction or longing, often accompanied by an inability to settle or find peace.
5. Wish – A desire or hope for something, often unattainable or idealized, related to yearning.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Lust – A strong desire, often for physical attraction, which can overlap with yearning in certain contexts.
2. Wistfulness – A longing mixed with sadness or melancholy, often a key element of yearning.
3. Despondency – A state of low spirits caused by a sense of unattainable desires or yearning.
4. Fantasizing – The act of imagining or dreaming about a desire that may be unattainable, closely related to yearning.
5. Covetousness – A strong desire for something that belongs to someone else, often driven by yearning.

Antonyms

1. Satisfaction
2. Contentment
3. Fulfillment
4. Gratification
5. Acceptance