Definition of crave

The word "crave" has its roots in Old English. The verb "craven" originally meant "to feel a strong and often unfulfilled desire" or "to long for something intensely." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "kraban," which is also the source of the Modern German word "krabben," meaning "to grasp" or "to seize." In Middle English (circa 1100-1500), the spelling of the word changed to "craven," and its meaning expanded to include a sense of yearning or longing. Over time, the spelling evolved to "crave," and the word has since been used in various contexts, including emotional desires, hunger, and even a desire for something more abstract, such as recognition or power. Throughout its evolution, "crave" has retained its core meaning of expressing a strong and often intense desire for something.