If someone yearns for something that they are unlikely to get, they want it very much. He yearned for freedom I yearned to be a movie actor. = long. to have a strong desire for something, especially something that is difficult or impossible to get = long yearn for
To be filled with longing desire; to be harassed or rendered uneasy with longing, or feeling the want of a thing; to strain with emotions of affection or tenderness; to long; to be eager
have a desire for something or someone who is not present; "She ached for a cigarette"; "I am pining for my lover"