hanker
UK: ˈhæŋkə | US: ˈhæŋkər
vi. to have a strong or persistent desire (often followed by for or after)
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The word hanker likely originates from the Dutch hunkeren ("to long for"), influenced by dialectal English hank (a variant of hang, implying a lingering desire). The -er suffix is a frequentative or intensifying element in verbs, suggesting repeated or prolonged action. Over time, hanker evolved to specifically denote a yearning or craving, often with a nostalgic or unfulfilled connotation.
She still hankers after her childhood home.
He hankered for adventure but never left his hometown.
Do you ever hanker for the simplicity of the past?
The old man hankered after the taste of his mother’s cooking.
Despite his success, he hankered for recognition from his peers.