Want/wɑːnt/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Expressing Desire Use 'want' when you have a strong wish to possess or do something. I want to start my own business. Pro Tip 2/3Immediate Needs 'Want' can show immediate, sometimes emotional, need for action or change. They want to see change in the community. Pro Tip 3/3Polite Requests Pair 'want' with 'would like' to politely express a desire or need. I would want to order dessert, please.