| English Dictionary |
WISHFUL
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
| IPA (US): |  |
Dictionary entry overview: What does wishful mean?
• WISHFUL (adjective)
The adjective WISHFUL has 2 senses:
1. having or expressing desire for something
2. desiring or striving for recognition or advancement
Familiarity information: WISHFUL used as an adjective is rare.
Dictionary entry details
Sense 1
Meaning:
Having or expressing desire for something
Synonyms:
desirous; wishful
Context example:
desirous of finding a quick solution to the problem
Similar:
appetent (marked by eager desire)
athirst; hungry; thirsty ((usually followed by 'for') extremely desirous)
avid; devouring; esurient; greedy ((often followed by 'for') ardently or excessively desirous)
covetous; envious; jealous (showing extreme cupidity; painfully desirous of another's advantages)
nostalgic (unhappy about being away and longing for familiar things or persons)
homesick (longing to return home)
Derivation:
wishfulness (an unrealistic yearning)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Desiring or striving for recognition or advancement
Synonyms:
Similar:
ambitious (having a strong desire for success or achievement)
Context examples
"How do you mean, ask them questions?" I queried, wishful to get him into a talkative humour.
(Dracula, by Bram Stoker)
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