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pine

English → EnglishcasualInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "pine": To "pine" is to feel a deep, lingering longing or yearning for something or someone that is absent o

What does "pine" mean?

To "pine" is to feel a deep, lingering longing or yearning for something or someone that is absent or lost. Imagine a person standing by a window, looking out with a heavy heart, suffering from a sadness that slowly drains their energy because they cannot be with what they desire. While it can refer to the evergreen tree, the verb form is almost always used in contexts of emotional ache or unrequited love. It suggests a passive, drawn-out state of grief rather than an active, explosive emotion. It is often paired with "for" (e.g., "pining for home").

"pine" in conversation

Checking in on a friend

Are you still pining for your ex?

Are you still pining for your ex?

I guess so. It’s been months, but I can't shake it.

I guess so. It’s been months, but I can't shake it.

Pining often implies a slightly pathetic or stuck emotional state.

Studying abroad

I’m really pining for some authentic tacos right now.

I’m really pining for some authentic tacos right now.

I know! This local food just isn't hitting the spot.

I know! This local food just isn't hitting the spot.

It can be used hyperbolically to describe intense cravings for things other than people.

"pine" in a sentence

  1. She pined for her distant home.

    She pined for her distant home.

  2. He spent his youth pining for a life he never led.

    He spent his youth pining for a life he never led.

  3. Instead of pining over what you've lost, look toward the future.

    Instead of pining over what you've lost, look toward the future.

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