VocabDictionary

craving

/ˈkreɪ.vɪŋ/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A powerful, urgent, or intense desire for something, typically food, drink, or a specific experience.

Example Sentences:
  • She had a sudden craving for chocolate in the middle of the night.
  • The patient struggled to overcome his intense craving for nicotine.
2.verb

The present participle of 'crave'; to feel a powerful desire for something.

Example Sentences:
  • He is craving a quiet vacation away from the city noise.
  • The body is craving nutrients after the long period of fasting.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “craving”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'crafian', meaning to demand or claim. It shares roots with the Old Norse 'krefja'. Historically, it implied a formal demand or a legal claim, but by the 16th century, it evolved to describe an intense psychological or physical desire for something, particularly food or addictive substances.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'cave-in' of your willpower when you see a delicious dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions About “craving

1. What is the meaning of “craving” in English?

In English, craving (noun) is defined as: “A powerful, urgent, or intense desire for something, typically food, drink, or a specific experience.”.

2. How do you use “craving” in a sentence?

She had a sudden craving for chocolate in the middle of the night.

3. What are English synonyms of “craving”?

Common synonyms include:longing,yearning,urge,desire,hankering

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “craving”?

Derived from the Old English 'crafian', meaning to demand or claim. It shares roots with the Old Norse 'krefja'. Historically, it implied a formal demand or a legal claim, but by the 16th century, it evolved to describe an intense psychological or physical desire for something, particularly food or addictive substances.