WANT Meaning and
Definition
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Want, in its noun form, refers to a desire or a lack of something that is necessary or desired. It is a state of lacking or needing something, often prompting someone to seek it out. A want can be a material possession, an emotional need, or simply a wish. It represents a yearning or longing for something that is absent from one's life.
In its verb form, want means to have a desire for, to feel a need for, or to wish for something. It conveys the sense of lacking or being in need of something specific. Wanting implies a sense of urgency or necessity to fulfill a desire or satisfy a need. It can also describe someone's preference or inclination towards a particular thing or action.
Generally, the word want encapsulates the idea of not having something or needing it with a sense of immediacy or strong desire. It can also connote the notion of lacking or falling short in some aspect. Wants can vary greatly between individuals and cultures, ranging from basic necessities like food and shelter to intangible aspirations such as love, success, or happiness. The concept of want is deeply intertwined with human nature and is a driving force behind human actions, motivations, and goals.
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• The absence of that which is necessary or useful; state of not having; deficiency; necessity; poverty.
• To be without; to be destitute of; to be deficient; to fall short of; to need; to desire.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for WANT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for WANT
Etymology of WANT
The word "want" originated from Old English "wǣnan" or "wanian", which derived from the Proto-Germanic word *wanōną. This Proto-Germanic word ultimately stems from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₁weh₁- or *wenh₁-, meaning "to lack, desire, hope". The transition from *wanōną to the Old English "wǣnan" and later "want" involved sound changes over time in the English language.
Idioms with the word WANT
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want out of
The idiom "want out of" means to desire to be free from or to no longer be involved in a particular situation, obligation, or commitment. It expresses a strong desire to escape, exit, or get away from something.
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what more do you want jam on it?
The idiom "what more do you want, jam on it?" is a rhetorical question used to convey the idea that someone is being unreasonably demanding or greedy. It suggests that the person in question already has something desirable or satisfactory, but they are still asking for more, as if having "jam" on top of it would make it even better.
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want to bet
The idiom "want to bet" is a rhetorical question used to challenge or provoke someone's confidence in a prediction, stating that the speaker strongly believes they are correct and offering to wager on it. It implies doubt towards the other person's disbelief or disagreement. It is often used informally as a way to express certainty or conviction in a certain outcome or statement.
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do you want to make sth/anything of it?
The idiom "do you want to make something/anything of it?" is typically used to challenge or provoke someone in a confrontational manner, asking if they want to escalate a situation or turn it into a conflict or competition. It implies a willingness to engage in a dispute or dispute the outcome.
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If you want peace, (you must) prepare for war.
The idiom "If you want peace, (you must) prepare for war" suggests that taking proactive measures and building strength are necessary to ensure a peaceful outcome or prevent conflict. It emphasizes the idea that being well-prepared and strong acts as a deterrent, discouraging others from initiating hostile actions. In essence, it highlights the notion that peace can only be attained through strength and preparedness.
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thing you don't want is dear at any price
The idiom "thing you don't want is dear at any price" means that something undesirable or unwanted becomes even more undesirable when it is too expensive or costly to obtain. This idiom suggests that no matter how much value or worth something may possess, it is not worth acquiring or pursuing if it is unappealing or unwanted by the individual.
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want a piece of me?
The idiom "want a piece of me?" is a confrontational expression often used as a challenge or taunt to someone who is challenging or provoking the speaker. It implies that the speaker believes they are strong or superior and is daring the other person to engage in a physical or verbal altercation.
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wouldn't want to be in shoes
The idiom "wouldn't want to be in someone's shoes" means that one would not want to be in the same situation or face the same problems or challenges as the other person. It implies that the other person is experiencing difficulty or hardship in their circumstances, and the idiom emphasizes that the speaker has no desire to be in their position.
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want in (sth)
The idiom "want in (sth)" refers to the desire or eagerness someone has to participate or become involved in a certain activity, event, or situation. It implies a wish to be included or given the opportunity to be a part of something.
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wouldn't want to be in sm's shoes
The idiom "wouldn't want to be in SM's shoes" means that a person does not envy or desire to be in the situation or position that someone else (referred to as SM) is currently in. It implies that the person's circumstances are difficult, challenging, or undesirable and that the speaker feels lucky or relieved not to be facing the same challenges or consequences.
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the last thing you want, need, etc.
The idiom "the last thing you want, need, etc." refers to something that is least desirable or considered as the worst possible outcome or scenario in a given situation. It implies that any other option or outcome would be more favorable or preferable than the described one. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding or being far from the mentioned circumstance.
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I don't want to sound like a busybody, but
The idiom "I don't want to sound like a busybody, but" is used when someone wants to express their opinion or give advice but does not want to appear intrusive or nosy. It serves as a precursor to offering a suggestion or sharing information, highlighting that the speaker understands their input may not be welcomed or may come across as prying.
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(how much) do you want to bet?
The idiom "(how much) do you want to bet?" is a rhetorical question used to express doubt or skepticism about a statement or proposition. It suggests a challenge or wager to determine the validity or outcome of a claim. The phrase implies questioning someone's certainty or inviting them to back up their confident assertion with a wager.
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waste not, want not
The idiom "waste not, want not" means that if you avoid wasting resources, you will never be in need or lacking those resources. It emphasizes the importance of being frugal, using things wisely, and avoiding unnecessary waste in order to ensure you have enough in the future.
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(do you) want to bet
The idiom "(do you) want to bet?" is a rhetorical question used to express doubt or skepticism about a statement or claim being made. It challenges the other person's certainty by implying that they may not be willing to wager on the outcome or truth of what they are saying.
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not/never want for anything
The idiom "not/never want for anything" means to have everything one needs or desires, typically referring to not experiencing any form of lack or deprivation. It suggests that a person lacks nothing materially or emotionally, indicating a state of contentment and abundance.
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want your bread buttered on both sides
The idiom "want your bread buttered on both sides" means that someone is overly demanding or always wants more than what is reasonable or fair. It refers to a person who seeks to maximize their benefits or advantages in every situation, often at the expense of others. It suggests someone who is not satisfied with the usual portion or wanting to have an excessive advantage or favoritism from different parties simultaneously.
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I don't want to alarm you, but
The idiom "I don't want to alarm you, but" is typically used as a preface to a statement or piece of information that may be unsettling, concerning, or worrisome. It is often employed to soften the impact of delivering potentially distressing news or to express caution without causing panic.
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do you want to make something of it?
The idiom "do you want to make something of it?" is a rhetorical question often used to express a challenge or confrontation to someone who has made a statement or taken an action that the speaker disagrees with or perceives as disrespectful. It implies a readiness or willingness for a conflict or altercation.
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more you get, the more you want
The idiom "the more you get, the more you want" refers to the tendency of human desire or ambition to grow as one acquires more or achieves success. It implies that as one's accomplishments or possessions increase, their appetite for more also increases. It suggests that reaching higher levels of wealth, power, or satisfaction often leads to an insatiable desire for even greater levels.
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want (something) like (one wants) a hole in the head
The idiom "want (something) like (one wants) a hole in the head" means to not want or need something at all, as it would be detrimental or undesirable to have or experience it. It implies that the thing in question is completely unnecessary or unwanted, similar to having a hole in one's head which would be painful and detrimental.
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Do you want to make sth of it?
The idiom "Do you want to make something of it?" is an expression used to challenge or confront someone's attitude or aggressive behavior. It implies a willingness for a confrontation or a desire to escalate a situation.
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For want of a nail the shoe was lost for want of a shoe the horse ...
The idiom "For want of a nail the shoe was lost for want of a shoe the horse ..." is derived from a proverbial rhyme and it refers to the idea that a small, seemingly unimportant action or detail can have significant consequences if left unattended. The full proverbial rhyme goes as follows:
"For want of a nail the shoe was lost,
For want of a shoe the horse was lost,
For want of a horse the rider was lost,
For want of a rider the battle was lost,
For want of a battle the kingdom was lost,
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail."
In essence, it highlights how a minor oversight or neglect can lead to a chain of events resulting in significant negative outcomes or consequences.
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want out
The idiom "want out" refers to the desire or intention to leave or escape from a situation, relationship, or commitment. It implies a strong desire for freedom or a need for change.
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for want of a better word
The idiom "for want of a better word" is commonly used to indicate that a particular word or phrase being used may not be the most accurate or appropriate, but it is being used because a more suitable alternative is not readily available or easily found. It is often employed when someone is struggling to accurately describe or define something.
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not want to know
The idiom "not want to know" refers to intentionally avoiding or ignoring information or details about something, usually because it is unpleasant, uncomfortable, or burdensome.
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Want to make sth of it?
The idiom "Want to make something of it?" is typically used in a confrontational manner to invite a person to engage in a physical or verbal altercation or to challenge their intentions or beliefs. It implies an aggressive or defiant attitude, often seeking to provoke a fight or argument to settle a disagreement.
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What do you want me to say?
The idiom "What do you want me to say?" is a rhetorical question used to express frustration or confusion when the speaker is unsure of how to respond or what to say in a particular situation. It implies that the speaker feels helpless or lacks the appropriate words to convey their thoughts or feelings.
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just want to say
The idiom "just want to say" is commonly used to express the desire or intention to deliver or communicate something. It signifies the speaker's eagerness to convey a particular message or thought.
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what do you want to bet (that)
The idiom "what do you want to bet (that)" is a rhetorical question often used to challenge or express doubt about someone's claim or prediction. It implies that the speaker is confident in their opposing view and is willing to wager on it. It is used to challenge the other person's assertion and invites them to back it up by suggesting a bet.
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If you want a thing done well, do it yourself
The idiom "If you want a thing done well, do it yourself" means that if you want something to be done effectively or correctly, you should take matters into your own hands and personally handle the task rather than relying on others to do it for you. It implies that self-involvement and personal effort are often necessary to achieve the desired outcome, as others may not meet your standards or invest the same level of care and attention.
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If you want peace, prepare for war
The idiom "If you want peace, prepare for war" means that in order to maintain peace and deter potential conflicts or aggression, it is necessary to be strong, well-equipped, and ready to defend oneself. It suggests that being prepared for war acts as a deterrent for potential adversaries, ultimately ensuring a peaceful environment.
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For want of a nail the shoe was lost for want of a shoe the horse was lost and for want of a horse the man was lost.
The idiom "For want of a nail the shoe was lost, for want of a shoe the horse was lost, and for want of a horse the man was lost" refers to the idea that a small, seemingly insignificant action or object can have far-reaching consequences. It highlights the chain of events that can result from a small mistake or oversight, ultimately leading to significant outcomes or outcomes that could have been prevented with a small action. The idiom is often used to emphasize the importance of paying attention to details and taking small actions seriously, as they can have a significant impact.
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the last thing I want
The idiom "the last thing I want" is used to express a strong desire to avoid or have something occur. It implies that the mentioned thing or situation is highly undesirable or unwanted by the speaker.
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I don't want to wear out my welcome
The idiom "I don't want to wear out my welcome" means that a person is being mindful not to overstay their visit or become burdensome to others. It signifies that the individual wants to maintain a positive, considerate relationship by making sure they do not overextend their presence or become an inconvenience.
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If you don't see what you want, please ask
The idiom "If you don't see what you want, please ask" means that if something you desire or need is not readily available or apparent, you should not hesitate to inquire or request it. It encourages proactive communication or seeking assistance rather than remaining silent or assuming the desired outcome is not achievable.
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want for nothing
The idiom "want for nothing" means to have everything one needs or desires, lacking nothing and being fully satisfied or contented.
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want in (or out or off, etc.)
The idiom "want in (or out or off, etc.)" refers to expressing a desire to be included or excluded from a particular situation, group, activity, or commitment. It signifies a person's wish to join or leave something. The specific preposition (in, out, off, etc.) depends on the context in which the idiom is used.
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want sth for sm or sth
The idiom "want something for someone or something" means to desire or demand a desired outcome or benefit for the specified person or thing. It implies a strong wish or expectation for the well-being, success, or advantage of the person or thing mentioned.
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want sm or sth in sth
The idiom "want something in something" typically means to desire or expect a particular thing to be included or present within another thing or situation, as part of a specific context or condition. It implies a specific requirement or preference for something to be included or incorporated in a particular manner.
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want for
The idiom "want for" means to lack or to be in need of something. It implies a sense of scarcity or absence of a particular thing or quality. For example, if someone says "He didn't want for money," it means that he had plenty of money and did not lack it.
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(I) just want(ed) to say sth.
The idiom "(I) just want(ed) to say sth." means that one intends to express a particular message or share something important. It is often used as an introductory phrase to preface a statement, opinion, or announcement one wants to convey.
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want in
The idiom "want in" means to desire or seek to be included or involved in something, often implying a desire to be part of a particular group or activity. It conveys a sense of eagerness or enthusiasm to join or participate.
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want for sth
The idiom "want for something" means to lack or be in need of something. It expresses a desire or a longing for something that is currently not present or available.
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it makes me (want to) puke
The idiom "it makes me (want to) puke" is an expression used to convey extreme disgust or revulsion towards something. It suggests that the speaker finds a particular situation or thing so repulsive, morally objectionable, or sickening that it elicits a strong feeling of nausea or the desire to vomit.
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want back
The idiom "want back" is typically used to express a desire to have something or someone returned or restored to its original state or possession. It usually implies a sense of longing or need for something that was previously owned, experienced, or known.
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want to curl up and die
The idiom "want to curl up and die" refers to a feeling of intense embarrassment, shame, or humiliation that makes one wish they could disappear or cease to exist. It conveys extreme distress or emotional pain, often elicited from a situation or event which one finds deeply mortifying or devastating.
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Who do you want?
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want to make of it?
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want off
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want sm for sth
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what do you want, a cookie
The idiom "what do you want, a cookie?" is used to sarcastically convey the message that someone should not expect to be praised or rewarded for something that is considered normal or expected. It implies that the person is seeking praise or validation for a basic or unremarkable action.
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need, want, etc. your head examined
The idiom "need your head examined" means that someone's behavior or thinking is so unusual, irrational, or illogical that they should seek professional help or therapy to assess their mental state. It is often used in a humorous or sarcastic way to suggest that someone is acting absurdly.
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(have, get, want, etc.) your pound of flesh
To demand what is owed or seek revenge to the utmost extent; to insist on getting what is believed to be rightfully deserved, often with a mentality of retribution or justice. This phrase originates from Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" in which the character Shylock demands a literal pound of flesh as payment for a debt owed to him.
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need/want somebody/something like a hole in the head
To have no need or desire for somebody or something; to find somebody or something completely unnecessary or undesirable.
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die for want of lobster sauce
This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone is excessively particular or demanding about a particular preference or desire, to the point where it becomes ridiculous or extreme. It implies that the person would be willing to sacrifice or suffer greatly for the sake of satisfying that preference or desire.
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have (or want) no truck with
To have no truck with someone or something means to have no dealings or association with them. It indicates a lack of interest, desire, or willingness to engage with that person or thing.
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not for want/lack of trying
The idiom "not for want/lack of trying" means that despite putting in effort and attempting something, the desired outcome or success was not achieved.
Similar spelling words for WANT
Conjugate verb Want
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have wanted
you
would have wanted
he/she/it
would have wanted
we
would have wanted
they
would have wanted
I
would have want
you
would have want
he/she/it
would have want
we
would have want
they
would have want
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been wanting
you
would have been wanting
he/she/it
would have been wanting
we
would have been wanting
they
would have been wanting
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would want
you
would want
he/she/it
would want
we
would want
they
would want
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be wanting
you
would be wanting
he/she/it
would be wanting
we
would be wanting
they
would be wanting
FUTURE
I
will want
you
will want
he/she/it
will want
we
will want
they
will want
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be wanting
you
will be wanting
he/she/it
will be wanting
we
will be wanting
they
will be wanting
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have wanted
you
will have wanted
he/she/it
will have wanted
we
will have wanted
they
will have wanted
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been wanting
you
will have been wanting
he/she/it
will have been wanting
we
will have been wanting
they
will have been wanting
IMPERATIVE
you
want
we
let´s want
to want
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was wanting
you
were wanting
he/she/it
was wanting
we
were wanting
they
were wanting
PAST PARTICIPLE
wanted
PAST PERFECT
I
had wanted
you
had wanted
he/she/it
had wanted
we
had wanted
they
had wanted
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been wanting
you
had been wanting
he/she/it
had been wanting
we
had been wanting
they
had been wanting
PRESENT
I
want
you
want
he/she/it
wants
we
want
they
want
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am wanting
you
are wanting
he/she/it
is wanting
we
are wanting
they
are wanting
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
wanting
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have wanted
you
have wanted
he/she/it
has wanted
we
have wanted
they
have wanted
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been wanting
you
have been wanting
he/she/it
has been wanting
we
have been wanting
they
have been wanting
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
want
SIMPLE PAST
I
wanted
you
wanted
he/she/it
wanted
we
wanted
they
wanted
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