want Definition
- 1to have a desire to possess or do something
- 2to lack or be short of something desirable or essential
Using want: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "want" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I want a cup of coffee.
Example
She wants to go on vacation.
Example
He wants to be a doctor.
Example
They want more money.
want Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using want
Example
The family was in want of food and shelter.
Example
When he found out about the accident, he didn't want to know the details.
Example
He asked for a raise, but he wanted the earth and the moon.
Phrases with want
Example
Growing up, she wanted for nothing.
Example
After years of working in the same job, he wanted out.
Example
When they heard about the party, they all wanted in.
Origins of want
from Old Norse 'vanta', meaning 'to lack'
Summary: want in Brief
The verb 'want' [wɒnt] means to have a desire for something or to lack something desirable or essential. It can be used in various contexts, from expressing a simple wish like 'I want a cup of coffee' to indicating a long-term goal like 'He wants to be a doctor.' 'Want' also appears in phrases like 'want for nothing,' meaning to have everything one needs or desires, and idioms like 'not want to know,' meaning to deliberately avoid hearing or learning about something.