A1[T]to have to have something, or to want something very much: Babies need constant care.The doctor said I needed an operation.[+ to infinitive]I need to go to the toilet.Most people need to feel loved.[+ obj + to infinitive]I need you to help me choose an outfit.I badly need (= strongly want) a rest from all this.informalI don't need all this hassle.Lacking thingsScarce, inadequate and not enoughEssential or necessaryWanting thingsHoping and hopefulnessB1[T]If you say that someone or something needs something else, you mean that they should have it, or would get an advantage from having it: What you need is a nice hot bowl of soup.[+ -ing verb]This room needs brightening up a bit.[+ past participle]She needs her hair washed.Lacking thingsScarce, inadequate and not enoughEssential or necessary