Hankering /ˈhæŋkərɪŋ/ is a noun that describes a strong desire for something, usually food or drink. The spelling is derived from the verb "hanker," which means to have a longing or craving for something. The word is pronounced with two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable, as indicated by the IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "hang," rhyming with "fang," while the second syllable is pronounced as "ker," rhyming with "fur."
A hankering is an intense and persistent desire or longing for something or someone. It is a strong craving or yearning that compels individuals to seek or pursue what they desire. This term is typically associated with a strong emotional or psychological attachment to a particular object, experience, or sensation.
A hankering often manifests as a deep appetite or longing that can be challenging to resist or ignore. It may arise from a variety of sources, such as a memory, a past experience, or an unfulfilled aspiration. This intense yearning can shape one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, pushing individuals to actively seek out what they yearn for.
Moreover, a hankering is not limited to physical desires but can also encompass emotional or intellectual longings. It can encompass a craving for adventure, success, love, knowledge, or even abstract concepts like freedom or justice. The term suggests a strong attachment or attachment to the object of desire, making it more than a passing fancy or fleeting interest.
The strength of a hankering can vary among individuals, as some may experience it more intensely than others. While a hankering often brings forth a sense of self-awareness and yearning, it may also lead to dissatisfaction or restlessness until the desired object or experience is obtained. However, it is important to exercise discernment and balance when responding to hankerings, as they may not always align with one's best interests or long-term fulfillment.
• Longing for with ardent desire.
• An ardent or vehement desire to possess or enjoy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hankering" has its origins in the Middle English word "hakeren", which meant "to long for" or "to have a strong desire". It is believed to have been derived from the Old Norse word "hökna", meaning "to suffer hunger" or "to be famished". Over time, "hakeren" evolved into "haukeren" and then "hankeren" in Middle English, eventually becoming "hankering" in its current form, which retains its original meaning of a strong desire or craving for something.