To want means to wish for something you don't currently have, or to feel that you need it. When you want a new book, you desire to own it and read it. When you're hungry, you want food. When you feel lonely, you might want company.

The feeling of wanting can range from mild to intense. You might casually want to try a new flavor of ice cream, or desperately want to make the soccer team. Sometimes we want things we need, like wanting water when we're thirsty. Other times we want things we simply desire, like wanting the latest video game.

The word can also mean to need or require something: “This bookshelf wants another coat of paint” means it needs one. If someone is wanted by the police, they're being searched for because they're suspected of a crime.

Understanding the difference between wanting and needing can help with decision-making. You might want fifty things but only truly need five of them.