The correct spelling for the phrase "hanker after" should be [ˈhæŋkər ˈæftər]. The first word, "hanker," is pronounced with the "a" sound as in "fan," followed by a "k" sound, and ending with an "er" sound. The second word, "after," is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat," followed by a "f" sound, and ending with a "t" sound. To spell this phrase correctly, it is important to remember the order of the sounds and the appropriate letters that represent them.
"Hanker after" is a phrasal verb that conveys a strong and persistent desire or longing for something. It implies a deep yearning or craving for a particular object, experience, or outcome. The term "hanker" itself originates from the Middle English word "hankerien," meaning "to have a longing or craving." When combined with the preposition "after," it intensifies the longing and emphasizes the pursuit of the desired object.
The phrase "hanker after" suggests an emotional yearning or a profound longing that goes beyond mere desire or aspiration. It implies a burning desire or an incessant urge to possess something or experience a specific situation. This could manifest in various forms, such as yearning for a lost love, pining for an unattainable goal, wishing for a different life, or longing for an object of personal significance.
The term "hanker after" often carries a sense of nostalgia, wistfulness, or fantasy, wherein the desired object may be elusive or associated with a past memory or an idealized future. It suggests a passionate longing that may have both positive and negative connotations, as it can stir emotions of both anticipation and dissatisfaction.
In summary, "hanker after" encapsulates a strong and persistent longing for something, encompassing emotions of desire, yearning, and a passionate pursuit that extends beyond mere superficial or fleeting preferences.
The word "hanker" can be traced back to the Middle Dutch word "hangkern", meaning "to long for" or "to desire". It is derived from the verb "hangen", which means "to hang" or "to be suspended". In Old English, this verb transformed into "hancian", and by the late 17th century, it evolved into "hanker" with the meaning of "to long or crave for". The addition of "after" to "hanker" further emphasizes the idea of pursuing or desiring something strongly.