craving
Americannoun
noun
Synonym Usage
See desire.
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of craving
Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; see origin at crave, -ing 1
Explanation
A craving is an intense desire for something really particular. If you have a craving for pickled herring, a tuna sandwich just won't do. Must. Have. Pickled. Herring. Craving is the noun that comes from the verb crave, which comes from the Old English word crafian, meaning "to demand, beg." When we talk about cravings, it's almost like the body and not the mind that is demanding something. Pregnant women famously have crazy cravings, sending their partners to the store in the middle of the night for pickles or toffee. Some people have cravings for power or fame: the desire is so strong they can't let it go.
Vocabulary lists containing craving
Eat Your Words
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Sugar Changed the World
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The Tale of Despereaux
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But the shift does at least seem to reflect fans' perceptions - and what they're craving.
From BBC • May 25, 2026
“I’ve been craving in-person experiences lately,” she says, “especially with people outside my bubble. This absolutely fulfills that desire.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026
Geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties and a craving for connection are also leading some Gen Zers to turn to faith communities for comfort and tradition.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 3, 2026
That childhood craving has grown rather strong as of late, especially in anticipation of National Pretzel Day, officially on April 26th.
From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026
The children burrow in next to her, craving warmth.
From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
