crave

UK: kreɪv | US: kreɪv

Definition

  1. vt. to desire intensely; long for

  2. vt. to beg or plead for (archaic/formal)

Structure

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Etymology

The word "crave" traces back to Old English crafian, meaning "to demand or ask forcefully." Over time, its intensity softened slightly, shifting from a demand to a deep longing. The silent -e is a remnant of Middle English spelling conventions. The root crav- reflects a persistent theme of yearning, linking to Old Norse krefja (to demand) and Germanic origins.

Examples

  1. She began to crave chocolate after dinner.

  2. The prisoner craved a chance to see his family.

  3. He craved recognition for his hard work.

  4. In medieval times, subjects would crave the king’s mercy.

  5. After weeks of dieting, I craved a slice of pizza.