Yearn
Word of the Day
What is Yearn?
verb
To have an intense feeling of longing for something, typically something that one has lost or been separated from.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen to honor the human capacity to long for love, connection, or purpose — feelings that often deepen with age and reflection.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
She yearned for a sense of belonging she had never truly felt.
They yearned to see each other again after months apart.
He yearned for the freedom of his youth.
Word Origins
Old English giernan, of Germanic origin
Originally tied to physical desire or craving; evolved into emotional or spiritual longing.
First appearance in English: Old English (before 12th century)
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
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Noun:
There was a quiet yearning in his voice.
-
Adjective:
She gave him a yearning glance.
-
Verb:
He longed to return home.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: añorar
- French: aspirer
- German: sehnen
- Italian: bramare
- Portuguese: ansiar
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Desire
“Desire” is broader and can be physical or material; “yearn” is emotional and soulful.
Crave
“Crave” often implies intensity or urgency; “yearn” is slower, more poetic.
Pine
“Pine” shares emotional sadness; “yearn” emphasizes longing and hope.
Fun Facts
- The word “yearn” appears in some of the oldest surviving English texts, including Beowulf.
- In neuroscience, yearning activates brain regions associated with both reward and emotional pain.
Cultural Usage
- Wuthering Heights is filled with characters who yearn for love beyond reach.
- Countless love songs express yearning as a core emotional theme.
Common Mistakes
Often confused with “want” or “miss”; “yearn” is more intense, emotional, and poetic.
Micro Story
Even after years abroad, he still yearned for the quiet of his childhood home.