Crave
/kreɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo feel a powerful desire or longing for something.
/kreɪv/
To have a powerful desire for something.
The hiker craved water after hours in the desert.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're REALLY wanting something, like a super yummy dessert or to play a game. Crave means you have a strong desire for it! For example, "I really crave a pizza right now!"
👶 For kids: To really, really want something! Like when you want candy so much you can't stop thinking about it!
More Examples
Many people crave success in their careers.
He craved his mother's cooking when he was away at college.
How It's Used
"I crave chocolate after a long day."
"Addicts often crave the substance they are dependent on."
"She craved spicy food during her pregnancy."
A powerful desire, especially for something that one cannot easily get.
/kreɪv/
A strong desire or longing for something.
He had a craving for adventure.
💡 Simply: A craving is like that super strong feeling you get when you *really* want something. It's like your tummy or brain is telling you, "I NEED this!" Example: "I had a craving for french fries."
👶 For kids: When you really, really, really want something, that's a craving!
More Examples
The artist felt a craving for artistic expression.
She fought the craving for a cigarette.
How It's Used
"She had a craving for ice cream after her workout."
Idioms & expressions
crave attention
To strongly desire attention from others.
"Some people crave attention and will do anything to get it."
have a craving for something
To experience a strong desire or longing for something.
"She had a craving for chocolate during her pregnancy."
From Middle English craven, to beg, crave; from Old French craver, to ask, beg for; of Germanic origin.
Historically, the word 'crave' often carried connotations of pleading or begging, reflecting its origins. It has evolved to encompass strong desires beyond just physical needs.
Memory tip
Think of a raven (crave-en) that is always hungry and desires food.
Word Origin
"to ask, beg for"