Longingly

/ˈlɔːŋɪŋli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
In a manner expressing a strong desire or yearning.
She looked longingly out the window, wishing to be outside in the sunshine.
With deep emotional desire; wistfully.
He spoke longingly of his childhood days spent by the seaside.
With a feeling of wanting something intensely.
The puppy gazed longingly at the treats on the kitchen counter.
In a pining manner, often reflecting sadness for something unattainable.
She sighed longingly, remembering the love she had lost.

Etymology

From the word 'longing', which comes from Old English 'longian' meaning 'to long for'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

longing for
Feeling a strong desire for something.
look longingly
To gaze with a sense of desire or yearning.
longing glance
A brief look that conveys deep desire or nostalgia.

Related Words

longing
A strong, persistent desire or craving.
yearning
A tender or urgent longing.
wistful
Having a feeling of vague or regretful longing.

Slang Meanings

To daydream about something or someone one desires.
He spent the afternoon longingly scrolling through travel blogs.
To fantasize or yearn in a playful or overly romanticized way.
She was longingly imagining a perfect date with her crush.