Skip to content

anhelo

longing

noun ah-NEH-loh Rare

Origin: Latin anhelare (to pant, to desire ardently)

Also means

yearning

Usage Note

Anhelo implies a deep, heartfelt desire for something often out of reach — stronger than deseo and more literary. The related verb is anhelar (anhelar la libertad, to yearn for freedom). It is common in formal writing, song lyrics, and speeches but sounds overly elevated in casual conversation.

Examples

"Siento un gran anhelo por volver a casa."

Natural Translation

I feel a great longing to return home.

Explore Spanish by topic