First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1need
noun \ˈnēd\
: a situation in which someone or something must do or have something
: something that a person must have : something that is needed in order to live or succeed or be happy
: a strong feeling that you must have or do something
Full Definition of NEED
1
: necessary duty : obligation
2
a : a lack of something requisite, desirable, or useful b : a physiological or psychological requirement for the well-being of an organism
3
: a condition requiring supply or relief
4
: lack of the means of subsistence : poverty
See need defined for English-language learners
See need defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of NEED
Middle English ned, from Old English nīed, nēd; akin to Old High German nōt distress, need, Old Prussian nautin need
Related to NEED
- Synonyms
- absence, lack, needfulness, want
- Antonyms
- nonessential, nonnecessity
2need
verb
: to be in a condition or situation in which you must have (something) : to require (something)
need·edneed·ingneeds or (auxiliary) need
Full Definition of NEED
intransitive verb
1
: to be needful or necessary
2
: to be in want
transitive verb
: to be in need of : require
verbal auxiliary
: be under necessity or obligation to <you need not answer> <she need only wait>
See need defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of NEED
before 12th century
NEED Defined for Kids
1need
verb \ˈnēd\
need·edneed·ing
Definition of NEED for Kids
1
: to suffer from the lack of something important to life or health <Give to those who need.>
2
: to be necessary <Something needs to be done.>
3
: to be without : require <I need advice.> <He bought what he needed.>
2need
noun
Definition of NEED for Kids
1
: something that must be done : obligation <An electrician understands the need to be careful.>
2
: a lack of something necessary, useful, or desired <After losing his job, he was in great need.>
3
: something necessary or desired <Our daily needs are few.>
Learn More About NEED
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up need? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).