Hankering: meaning, definitions and examples

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hankering

 

[ ˈhæŋkərɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

strong desire

A hankering is a deep, persistent longing or craving for something, often something that is unattainable or out of reach. It can refer to a desire for food, experiences, or even relationships. This term conveys a sense of yearning that is more profound than just a simple want. People often experience a hankering for nostalgic moments or things they cannot have anymore. The term is frequently used in informal contexts.

Synonyms

craving, desire, longing, yearning

Examples of usage

  • She had a hankering for chocolate cake.
  • After the long trip, he felt a hankering for home.
  • He developed a hankering to travel the world again.

Etymology

The word 'hankering' originates from the late 18th century, derived from the verb 'hanker,' which is believed to be a variant of the dialectal term 'hank,' meaning to have a strong desire. The term appears in both American and British English, reflecting a common human experience of longing or craving. The usage of 'hanker' can be traced back to the 17th century in various dialects of English, particularly in the context of having a strong wish for something. The evolution of the term has allowed it to morph into its contemporary usage, where it captures the essence of human desire and emotional craving in a nuanced manner. The idea conveyed by 'hankering' is often imbued with nostalgia or an unfulfilled aspiration, making it a popular term in literature and everyday speech.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,046, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.