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

Use it as an accompaniment to prop up a tired appetizer — like that cheese ball of yours — or add a dollop to the side of your plate for when your taste buds crave a little zing to make the perfect bite.

From Salon

Open up a world of bright futures to people who don’t have a bachelor’s degree but crave training and work hard.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, both cultures crave a continuing musical conversation, and American K-pop fans deserve a night of celebration with the performance standards Korean production is known for, not just a one-off on American shows that don’t understand them.

From Los Angeles Times

Many patients simply don’t crave substances like they used to.

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

Related Words

• covet
• cry out for
• fancy
• lust after