demand definition

1. an urgent or peremptory request
• examples: his demands for attention were unceasing
2. the ability and desire to purchase goods and services
• examples: the automobile reduced the demand for buggywhips
• examples: the demand exceeded the supply
3. the act of demanding
• examples: the kidnapper's exorbitant demands for money
4. request urgently and forcefully
• examples: The victim's family is demanding compensation
• examples: The boss demanded that he be fired immediately
• examples: She demanded to see the manager
5. claim as due or just
• examples: The bank demanded payment of the loan
6. lay legal claim to
7. summon to court
8. ask to be informed of
• examples: I demand an explanation