crave

American  

[kreyv] / kreɪv /

verb (used with object)

craved, craving

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.

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verb (used without object)

craved, craving

1. to beg or plead (usually followed byfor ).

crave British  

/ kreɪv /

verb

1. to desire intensely; long (for)

2. (tr) to need greatly or urgently

3. (tr) to beg or plead for

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Other Word Forms

• craver noun

Etymology

Origin of crave

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

Example Sentences

Since they have extremely long-dated liabilities—people’s lives—their managers crave long-duration but “safe” investments.

From The Wall Street Journal

And resorts that crave group bookings increasingly cater to mixed abilities, says Craig Burton, chief executive of Active Travel Group, which plans excursions for corporate clients.

From The Wall Street Journal

As readers, we still crave the heightened, obsessive love that “Wuthering Heights” mastered so singularly.

From Los Angeles Times

If your pot feels thin or underpowered, it may be craving something savory — a spoonful of bouillon, a splash of soy sauce, a handful of mushrooms.

From Salon

These medications reduce cravings for salty snacks, chocolate and sweetened drinks.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• covet
• cry out for
• fancy
• lust after