Hungrily - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

manner of eating

Hungrily describes the manner in which someone eats with enthusiasm or eagerness, often due to extreme hunger. It conveys a sense of urgency and desire for food, highlighting that the person is quite famished. This adverb is frequently used to depict characters in literature or everyday situations where food is not just a necessity but a craving. The term can also evoke strong emotions associated with food deprivation.

Synonyms

greedily, insatiably, voraciously.

Examples of usage

She devoured the meal hungrily.
He hungrily reached for another slice of pizza.
The children ate hungrily after their long day of play.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Feeling hungry can affect your mood and concentration, often leading to irritability or lack of focus.
Studies show that hunger can increase motivation and the desire for rewards, pushing individuals to seek out food.
The sensation of hunger is controlled by hormones such as ghrelin, which ignites a sense of urgency to eat.

Culinary Culture

Many cultures have specific meals or snacks designed to satisfy hunger quickly, like street food or fast food.
The phrase 'eating hungrily' can refer to the enjoyment of food, often seen in famished diners at a feast.
In literature and films, characters sometimes eat 'hungrily' to signify desperation or a strong desire for sustenance.

Pop Culture

Hunger Games is a popular series that uses the concept of hunger both literally and metaphorically, symbolizing survival and rebellion.
Social media often features videos of people making or eating food ‘hungrily,’ emphasizing taste and greed in sharing experiences.
Songs and films sometimes use hunger as a metaphor for desire, passion, or craving for something beyond food.

Origin of 'hungrily'

Main points about word origin

The word 'hungry' comes from the Old English 'hungrig,' which relates to being needy or craving food.
In Middle English, it evolved to 'hungrie,' showing how language changes over time.
The suffix '-ly' is used to turn adjectives into adverbs, describing how someone feels or acts.

The word 'hungrily' is derived from the Old English 'hungrig,' which meant 'having a desire for food' and is related to the word 'hunger.' The root 'hun' can be traced back to Proto-Germanic origins, where it also connoted the feeling of yearning for sustenance. Over time, it evolved through the Middle English period, maintaining its association with a strong desire to eat. By the 14th century, 'hungrily' was used as an adverb to describe the manner in which people consume food, often emphasizing eagerness. This evolution reflects the human experience surrounding hunger—both physical and emotional—as food has always played a central role in society and culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,890, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26887 xenophobia
26888 fearlessness
26889 hacks
26890 hungrily
26891 amassing
26892 sushi
26893 napping
...

Hungrily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations