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

The company said its research shows that consumers crave interactions with real people, and they have deep concerns about the growing use of AI and its potential societal changes.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He craved the validation of companions that never disagreed with him.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

But when it comes to Disneyland, its theme park that become a SoCal institution, fans and history buffs crave specifics.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

While Townsend's position continues to occupy much of the column inches and air-time, the man himself is certain in his belief that he can lead this team to the sort of success the fans crave.

Read more on BBC

But the majority — those who craved as much “Harry Potter” as possible before the series’ inevitable end; those who would blindly spend their money on anything “Potter” — were elated.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

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