hankering

UK: ˈhæŋkərɪŋ | US: ˈhæŋkərɪŋ

Definition

  1. n. a strong desire or craving for something

Structure
hanker <to long for>ing <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "hankering" originates from the verb "hanker," which emerged in the early 17th century, likely derived from the Dutch word "hunkeren" (to long for). The suffix "-ing" transforms it into a noun denoting the state or act of craving. The term retains its core sense of persistent desire, often for something specific or nostalgic.

Examples

  1. She had a hankering for her grandmother’s homemade pie.

  2. After weeks of dieting, he felt a hankering for chocolate.

  3. A sudden hankering for adventure made him book a spontaneous trip.

  4. The smell of fresh bread stirred a hankering in the hungry crowd.

  5. Despite his busy schedule, he couldn’t ignore his hankering to paint again.