WordGarden.iolongingly
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈɒŋɪŋli/
US
- /ˈlɔŋɪŋli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a way that shows yearning or wistful desire
Beyond the definition
To look at something longingly means you want it very, very much—perhaps something you cannot have, or a memory of something lost. It is more than just wanting; it carries a touch of sadness and deep affection. A dog might gaze longingly at a dropped piece of steak, while an old man might look longingly at photographs of his youth. The word suggests a persistent, almost aching desire. You don't simply want something longingly; you ache for it.
"Longingly" describes the way someone feels or acts when they have a strong and often melancholic yearning for something—a person, place, time, or even an abstract idea. It is not just wanting; it is a deep-seated desire mixed with a sense of loss or distance. Think of a sailor gazing longingly at the shore as his ship sails away, or a child looking longingly through the window at friends playing in the snow while stuck inside.
The word evokes a feeling of wistful sadness and persistent hope. It suggests that whatever is desired feels just out of reach. You might remember a happy summer vacation fondly, but you look back on it longingly, wishing you could relive those moments. A character in a novel might look longingly at a departing loved one, knowing they may never see them again.
"Longingly" often modifies verbs that describe looking, waiting, or speaking: "She looked longingly at the pastries," or "He spoke longingly of his homeland." It is a word that paints a picture of deep emotion and unfulfilled desire, a quiet ache in the heart. It is more than just wanting; it is yearning with every fiber of your being.
Examples
- 1
Food craving
She looked longingly at the last slice of cake.
- 2
Pet longing
The dog stared longingly through the window as the children played outside.
- 3
Nostalgia
He spoke longingly of the small town where he grew up.
- 4
Vacation wish
After a week of rain, we thought longingly of warm beaches and clear skies.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Missed departure
Maria watched longingly as the train pulled away, wishing she were on it.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- longinglyadverb