crave

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb crave differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of crave are covet, desire, want, and wish. While all these words mean "to have a longing for," crave stresses the force of physical appetite or emotional need.

craves sweets

When could covet be used to replace crave?

While in some cases nearly identical to crave, covet implies strong envious desire.

covets his rise to fame

When might desire be a better fit than crave?

The meanings of desire and crave largely overlap; however, desire stresses the strength of feeling and often implies strong intention or aim.

desires to start a new life

When is it sensible to use want instead of crave?

Although the words want and crave have much in common, want specifically suggests a felt need or lack.

wants to have a family

When can wish be used instead of crave?

The words wish and crave are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wish sometimes implies a general or transient longing especially for the unattainable.

wishes for permanent world peace

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of crave Even something as simple as a kitchen step stool can become a statement piece because people continue to crave more expressive, vibrant environments at home. Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2025 The Dead Don't Die In Jim Jarmusch's absurdist apocalypse comedy, flesh-craving zombies raid the once-tranquil town of Centerville, picking off its residents one by one. James Mercadante, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025 This was the childhood Prince William so craved. Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 3 Sep. 2025 Directed by Joe Lam and produced by Joe Barbagallo and Brent Trotter, the film tells the story of Alessa and Chris, a young couple whose lives unravel when Alessa becomes pregnant with a child that craves blood. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for crave
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crave
Verb
  • By February, Dudek had become the conduit between DOGE and the SSA, alerting top agency officials that DOGE wanted to work at headquarters.
    Eli Hager, ProPublica, 8 Sep. 2025
  • And after Detroit defeated Green Bay, 34-31, in Week 14 last season, many Packers talked about wanting to see the Lions again in the postseason.
    Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The coverage Jaden Hicks isn’t going to enjoy the film.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Maybe the decision to enjoy some down time Wednesday helped Alcaraz.
    Howard Fendrich, Chicago Tribune, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Remove sides of pan, drizzle with cinnamon glaze, and garnish with figs if desired.
    Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2025
  • If desired, place the pan under the broiler to brown the cheese.
    Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 5 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crave.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/crave. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on crave

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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