aspire

[ uh-spahyuhr ]

verb (used without object)

, as·pired, as·pir·ing.

1. to long, aim, or seek ambitiously; be eagerly desirous, especially for something great or of high value (usually followed by to, after, or an infinitive):

   to aspire after literary immortality; to aspire to be a doctor.

   Synonyms: yearn

2. Archaic. to rise up; soar; mount; tower.

aspire

/ əˈspaɪə /

verb

1. usually foll byto or after to yearn (for) or have a powerful or ambitious plan, desire, or hope (to do or be something)

   to aspire to be a great leader

2. to rise to a great height

Derived Forms

• asˈpiring, adjective
• asˈpirer, noun

Other Words From

• as·pirer noun
• as·piring·ly adverb
• nonas·piring adjective
• unas·piring adjective
• unas·piring·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of aspire¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English, from Middle French aspirer, from Latin aspīrāre “to breathe upon, pant after,” from a- a- ⁵ + spīrāre “to breathe, blow”

Word History and Origins

Origin of aspire¹

C15: from Latin aspīrāre to breathe upon, from spīrāre to breathe

Synonym Study

See ambitious

Example Sentences

It achieved global success and touched the lives of millions of theater geeks and aspiring ingenues alike with its showstopping numbers and visionary production.

From Salon

Planning documents show Mr Saverimutto said the gym would give specialist sports and health education to aspiring young athletes aged eight to 18, and include three classrooms and a sensory room.

From BBC

Britain's Andy Murray said: "The passion and intensity you played with was something I think all tennis players aspire to, and what all tennis fans will remember you for. It has been incredible watching you."

From BBC

"The key things that you'd need to enjoy are moving around a lot and looking a bit funny," Sam advises aspiring beginners.

From BBC

I knew that this version of the United States of America was not going to elect a supremely qualified Black woman even if the alternative is an aspiring dictator who is a White man.

From Salon

Related Words

• crave
• pursue
• strive
• yearn