much-needed

UK: ˌmʌtʃ ˈniːdɪd | US: ˌmʌtʃ ˈniːdɪd

Definition

  1. adj. greatly required or desired

  2. adj. essential due to prolonged lack

Structure
much <large quantity>needed <required>
Etymology

The compound "much-needed" combines "much" (Old English micel, meaning "great in quantity") with "needed" (past participle of "need," from Old English nēodian, "to be necessary"). The hyphenated form emerged in Modern English to emphasize the intensity of the necessity, often implying urgency or long-standing deprivation. The logic is straightforward: something is "much-needed" when its absence is acutely felt.

Examples

  1. The team received much-needed support after the crisis.

  2. Rainfall brought much-needed relief to the drought-stricken region.

  3. His advice provided a much-needed perspective on the issue.

  4. The charity delivered much-needed supplies to the refugees.

  5. A vacation would be a much-needed break from her busy schedule.