Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for desire. Search instead for de+sire.
Definitions

desire

[dih-zahyuhr] / dɪˈzaɪər /




VERB
ask, request
Synonyms
Antonyms
STRONG
WEAK
not want


Usage

What are other ways to say desire? Desire, a formal verb, suggests a strong wish: They desire liberation. Wish implies the feeling of an impulse toward attainment or possession of something; the strength of the feeling may be of greater or lesser intensity: I wish I could go home. Want, usually colloquial in use, suggests a feeling of lack or need that imperatively demands fulfillment: People all over the world want peace.

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.

McKenna has been linked with the Fulham job but said his departure from Portman Road is because of his desire to take a break from the game and spend more time with his family.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Indonesia began enforcing its own social media ban for users under the age of 16 in March, while several European governments have announced their desire to make similar moves.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

The film is a distinctly modern rumination on the desire to shut off and watch the world go by, without forming an opinion on the horrors.

From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026

It’s also born from a desire on the state’s part to collect as many people’s lawful votes as possible.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2026

Except the desire shredding me up inside was so painful, it could only be a part of my heart and soul.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros




Vocabulary lists containing desire


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "desire" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com