2. the state of needing something that is absent or unavailable; - Example: "there is a serious lack of insight into the problem" - Example: "water is the critical deficiency in desert regions" - Example: "for want of a nail the shoe was lost" [syn: lack, deficiency, want]
3. anything that is necessary but lacking; - Example: "he had sufficient means to meet his simple needs" - Example: "I tried to supply his wants" [syn: need, want]
4. a specific feeling of desire; - Example: "he got his wish" - Example: "he was above all wishing and desire" [syn: wish, wishing, want]
VERB (5)
1. feel or have a desire for; want strongly; - Example: "I want to go home now" - Example: "I want my own room" [syn: desire, want]
2. have need of; - Example: "This piano wants the attention of a competent tuner" [syn: want, need, require]
3. hunt or look for; want for a particular reason; - Example: "Your former neighbor is wanted by the FBI" - Example: "Uncle Sam wants you"
4. wish or demand the presence of; - Example: "I want you here at noon!"
5. be without, lack; be deficient in; - Example: "want courtesy" - Example: "want the strength to go on living" - Example: "flood victims wanting food and shelter"