aspiring

[ uh-spahyer-ing ]

adjective

1. eagerly or ambitiously aiming for a particular career, title, social status, etc.: a team of aspiring gold medalists.

   an aspiring composer;

   a team of aspiring gold medalists.

Other Words From

• 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 aspiring¹

First recorded in 1575–1595; aspire ( def ) + -ing ²( def )

Synonym Study

See ambitious.

Example Sentences

There are a record number of candidates retaking the exam this year, after authorities announced they would expand enrolment in medical schools - a move that was met with widespread protests among trainee doctors while being welcomed by aspiring medical students.

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

“He gave his time and resources to aspiring actors, consistently advocating for greater representation and authenticity within the industry.”

From Los Angeles Times

After high school, I was aspiring to be a fashion designer, so I was trying my best to get into the top fashion school in India.

From Salon

In her teens, the aspiring actress enjoyed writing comic monologues - performing them as part of the after-dinner entertainment at local Masonic lodges.

From BBC

Related Words

• eager
• would-be