aspiring

adjective

aspir·​ing ə-ˈspī-riŋ How to pronounce aspiring (audio)
: desiring and working to achieve a particular goal : having aspirations to attain a specified profession, position, etc.
an aspiring actor [=a person who aspires to be and is trying to become an actor]
an aspiring novelist

Examples of aspiring in a Sentence

an aspiring young pianist eager to win the prestigious competition
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
High mortgage rates are keeping aspiring homebuyers on the sidelines of the housing market, even as inventory is slowly growing across the country, exacerbating the ongoing nationwide affordability crunch. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 11 Feb. 2025 His approach offers a blueprint for aspiring creatives: build an empire not by chasing trends or money, but by pursuing what truly brings you joy. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 10 Feb. 2025 Gilpin replaced Cole Escola, who originated the part of Mrs. Lincoln, the presidential spouse and aspiring cabaret performer, in the stage hit. Brent Lang, Variety, 6 Feb. 2025 Another must-have for the aspiring home chef is a kitchen scale. Will Porter, Architectural Digest, 5 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for aspiring 

Word History

First Known Use

1788, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aspiring was in 1788

Dictionary Entries Near aspiring

Cite this Entry

“Aspiring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aspiring. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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