ambition
UK[æmˈbɪʃ(ə)n]US[æmˈbɪʃ(ə)n]
n
A strong desire to achieve something, such as success, power, or fame.
n
The particular goal or aim that is desired.
Morpheme Breakdown
amb
it
ion
amb
around
it
go
ion
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'ambition' originates from the Latin 'ambitio', which itself derives from 'ambire', meaning 'to go around (canvassing for votes)'. This literal sense of 'going around' referred to the practice of Roman politicians soliciting support. Over time, the term evolved to signify the eager desire for honor or power that drove such canvassing. By the late Middle English period, it had broadened to encompass any strong desire for achievement or distinction, shedding its specifically political connotation while retaining its core sense of striving.
Analysis
Structure: amb (around) + it (go) + ion (noun suffix)
amb (Latin prefix meaning 'around'), it (from Latin verb root 'ire' meaning 'to go'), ion (Latin suffix forming nouns of action or state).
Examples
Her ambition to become a surgeon drove her through years of rigorous study.
He has no political ambitions and prefers to work behind the scenes.
Filled with ambition, she started her own company at the age of twenty-five.