Definition

A strong and often sad desire for something that one wants very much.

Example

She felt a deep yearning for her childhood home.

Conversation

I've been feeling a strong yearning for travel lately.

I totally get that! It's hard being stuck in one place.

Yeah, I just want to explore new cultures and meet new people.

Same here! Let's plan a trip together sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Yearning comes from the Old English 'geornung', which is derived from 'georn' (meaning eager or desirous) and the suffix '-ing' (indicating a state or action). The word 'yearning' describes the state of being eager or having a strong desire for something.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'eager' ('georn') for something, and the '-ing' shows that it's an ongoing feeling. This helps you remember that 'yearning' means having a strong desire.

Visually Confused Words