DictionaryAI

require

verb
ri-KWYR/ɹɪˈkwaɪɹ/UKri-KWY-uh/ɹɪˈkwaɪə/

Formsrequires, requiring, required

3 meanings of require

Practice

  1. 1
    needverbtransitive
    To need something in order to live, work, or happen.

    Like a fire that cannot keep burning without air.

    Plants require water and sunlight to grow.

    This job requires a lot of patience.

    UsageYou can say the car requires fixing, meaning it needs to be fixed.

    Similarneed, demand, necessitate, take, involve

  2. 2
    make compulsoryverbtransitive
    To say that something must be given or done, often because of a rule or law.

    The school requires a note from a doctor when a student is sick.

    Most airlines require a passport for international flights.

    UsageYou can require someone to do something. Rules say you are required to…

    Note
  3. 3
    verbobsolete
    To ask someone for something as a request.
    I requyre the in the name of god, that thou torment me nott.
    1526, [William Tyndale, transl.], The Newe Testamẽt (Tyndale Bible)Here, requyre means ask or beg, so I ask you in God's name.
    Note

Practice

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Origin

From Latin "requiro" meaning "I ask for" or "seek," through Old French "requerre."

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts