Langimage
English

wanted

|want/ed|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈwɔːntɪd/

🇬🇧

/ˈwɒntɪd/

(want)

desire or lack

Base Form3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNoun
wantwantswantedwantedwantingwantsunwantedness
Etymology
Etymology Information

'wanted' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'wantian,' where 'want-' meant 'to be lacking.'

Historical Evolution

'wantian' transformed into the Middle English word 'wanten,' and eventually became the modern English word 'want.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to be lacking or deficient,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to desire or wish for something.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

past tense or past participle form of 'want'.

She wanted to go to the concert.

Adjective 1

being sought after or desired.

The wanted criminal was finally captured.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45