crave

[ kreyv ]

verb (used with object)

, craved, crav·ing.

1. to long for; want greatly; desire eagerly:

   to crave sweets; to crave affection.

2. to require; need:

   a problem craving prompt attention.

3. to ask earnestly for (something); beg for.
4. to ask (a person) earnestly for something or to do something.

verb (used without object)

, craved, crav·ing.

1. to beg or plead (usually followed by for ).

crave

/ kreɪv /

verb

1. whenintr, foll by for or after to desire intensely; long (for)
2. tr to need greatly or urgently
3. tr to beg or plead for

Derived Forms

• ˈcraver, noun

Other Words From

• craver noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of crave¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English craven, Old English crafian; akin to Old Norse krefja “to demand, lay claim to”

Word History and Origins

Origin of crave¹

Old English crafian; related to Old Norse krefja to demand, krǣfr strong; see craft

Example Sentences

“You get the sweet and sour taste from the dressing, and you get the smokey grilled flavor from the sausage, combined with the crunchy bread. Hot dogs cover most of your taste cravings.”

From Salon

Don’t take personally the Sagittarius penchant to run away at a moment’s notice to a faraway land promising the stimulation they not just crave but require to fuel their hyperactive brains.

From Los Angeles Times

I do love how she comes back around to the star, like she’s reaching back for what she sees as the love she has always craved.

From Los Angeles Times

It works by reducing cravings for nicotine and blocking its effect on the brain, while also helping with withdrawal symptoms, such as feeling irritable or having difficulty sleeping.

From BBC

“Many of the humans left when the jobs did. Those that remained, they needed – they craved – a leader. A warrior. A commander. And they became my army,” he tells his roommates.

From Salon

Related Words

• covet
• cry out for
• fancy
• lust after