crave

[kreyv]

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.

verb (used without object)

craved, craving 

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

crave

/ kreɪv /

verb

1. to desire intensely; long (for)

2. (tr) to need greatly or urgently

3. (tr) to beg or plead for

Other Word Forms

• craver 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

"It shows the Dutch are craving a prime minister who is able to unite the country and tackle the major challenges our country and the world are facing."

Read more on BBC

During that time they interviewed parents and teachers at local public and private schools to get a variety of perspectives on what the community was craving.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Early studies in animals and humans suggest that these drugs may influence the brain circuits that drive addictive behavior, potentially lowering cravings and use while also benefiting other coexisting health issues.

Read more on Science Daily

A good fit for: Cooks who crave the non-toxicity of steel, minus the upkeep.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

While risks remain, the latest quarter—and the strong demand for space in Digital Realty’s data centers—should give investors a measure of the certainty they crave.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• covet 
• cry out for 
• fancy 
• lust after www.thesaurus.com