aspirational
UK[ˌæspəˈreɪʃənl]US[ˌæspəˈreɪʃənl]
adj
Relating to or characterized by a strong desire to achieve something high or great.
adj
Describing something that people aspire to have or achieve, often representing a desirable but perhaps not yet attainable lifestyle or status.
Morpheme Breakdown
aspirat
ion
al
aspirat
to breathe, to desire
ion
noun suffix
al
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'aspirational' is built upon the core Latin verb aspirare, which literally meant 'to breathe upon' (ad- 'to' + spirare 'to breathe'). This physical act evolved metaphorically into the sense of 'striving toward' or 'desiring' something, much like one's breath reaches for an object. The noun-forming suffix -ion was added to create 'aspiration', denoting the act or state of striving. Finally, the adjectival suffix -al was appended, transforming it into a descriptor for things characterized by or relating to such ambition. Thus, the term's logic flows from a literal breath to a metaphorical yearning, culminating in its modern use to describe ambitious desires or coveted lifestyles.
Analysis
Structure: aspirat (to breathe, to desire) + ion (noun suffix) + al (adjective suffix)
- aspirat: From Latin aspiratus, the past participle of aspirare ('to breathe upon, to desire'). In this word, it carries the sense of 'to strive for'.
- ion: A suffix of Latin origin used to form nouns indicating an action or process.
- al: A suffix of Latin origin (-alis) used to form adjectives meaning 'of, relating to, or characterized by'.
Examples
The magazine features aspirational homes that most readers can only dream of owning.
Her career path is highly aspirational, aiming for a CEO position within a decade.
The brand's marketing targets aspirational consumers who wish to project an image of success.