n. & v.
--n.
1. an insistent and peremptory request, made as of right.
2 Econ. the desire of purchasers or consumers for a commodity (no demand for solid tyres these days).
3 an urgent claim (care of her mother makes demands on her).
--v.tr.
1. (often foll. by of, from, or to + infin., or that + clause) ask for (something) insistently and urgently, as of right (demanded to know; demanded five pounds from him; demanded that his wife be present).
2 require or need (a task demanding skill).
3 insist on being told (demanded her business).
4 (as demanding adj.) making demands; requiring skill, effort, etc. (a demanding but worthwhile job).
Phrases and idioms:
demand feeding the practice of feeding a baby when it cries for a feed rather than at set times. demand note
1. a written request for payment.
2 US a bill payable at sight. demand pull Econ. available money as a factor causing economic inflation. in demand sought after. on demand as soon as a demand is made (a cheque payable on demand).
Derivatives:
demandable adj. demander n. demandingly adv.
Etymology: ME f. OF demande (n.), demander (v.) f. L demandare entrust (as DE-, mandare order: see MANDATE)