yearning
UK: ˈjɜː.nɪŋ | US: ˈjɝː.nɪŋ
n. a deep, persistent longing or desire
n. an intense emotional craving, often tinged with sadness
The word "yearning" originates from the Old English geornung, derived from geornan ("to desire, strive"). The root yearn traces back to Proto-Germanic gernaz ("eager"), linked to the Proto-Indo-European root gher- ("to like, want"). Over time, yearn evolved to signify a profound, often melancholic longing, while the suffix -ing nominalized the verb into a state or action. The word’s emotional depth reflects its Germanic roots, where desire was intertwined with effort and earnestness.
Her yearning for home grew stronger with each passing day.
The song expressed a quiet yearning for lost love.
He felt a sudden yearning to revisit his childhood town.
Their eyes met, filled with unspoken yearning.
The novel captures the universal yearning for connection.