craving
UK: ˈkreɪvɪŋ | US: ˈkreɪvɪŋ
n. a powerful desire for something
n. an intense longing or yearning
The word "craving" originates from the Old English crafian ("to demand, claim"), which evolved into Middle English craven ("to beg, ask earnestly"). The modern sense of "intense desire" emerged in the 16th century. The root "crave" retains its core meaning of strong wanting, while the suffix "-ing" nominalizes the action, turning it into a concrete noun. This reflects a shift from external demands (Old English) to internal, emotional longing (Modern English).
She had a sudden craving for chocolate after dinner.
His craving for adventure led him to travel the world.
Pregnant women often experience unusual food cravings.
The artist's craving for perfection made her rework the painting endlessly.
Meditation helped him reduce his craving for material possessions.