Meaning & Definition of word "Want"

Want

/wɒnt/

noun:

  • 1. a desire for something.
    • Example: His want for success drove him to work hard.
  • 2. a lack of something.
    • Example: In want of food, they searched for a marketplace.
  • 3. something that is desired.
    • Example: It was a want that kept her awake at night.

verb:

  • 1. to desire something or wish for something.
    • Example: I want to go to the beach this weekend.
  • 2. to have a strong desire or craving for something.
    • Example: She wants a new bicycle for her birthday.
  • 3. to lack or need something.
    • Example: He wants for nothing after his recent promotion.
  • 4. to wish to do something.
    • Example: They want to travel the world together.

Etymology

Middle English 'wanter', from Old Norse 'vanta', meaning 'to be lacking'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

want for nothing:

to have everything one needs or desires

want something badly:

to desire something intensely

want to be left alone:

to desire solitude or personal space

Related Words

desire:

a strong feeling of wanting something

need:

require something because it is essential or very important

wish:

a desire for something that may not happen

Slang Meanings of want

Meaning: wanna

Example Sentence: I wanna go to the movies tonight.

Meaning: wantsies

Example Sentence: I have some wantsies for the latest tech gadgets.