Synonyms of crave

crave

verb

ˈkrāv 

as in to want

to have an earnest wish to own or enjoy

craves ice cream at all hours of the day

Synonyms & Similar Words

• want
• enjoy
• desire
• covet
• love
• like
• wish (for)
• die (for)
• long (for)
• prefer
• pine (for)
• thirst (for)
• itch (for)
• salivate (for)
• hunger (for)
• lust (for or after)
• yearn (for)
• sigh (for)
• hanker (for or after)
• repine (for)
• pant (after)
• yen (for)
• jones (for)
• relish
• ache (for)
• desiderate
• admire
• set one's heart on
• spoil (for)
• adore
• fancy
• appreciate
• delight (in)
• groove (on)
• dig
• revel (in)
• cherish
• favor
• value
• treasure
• prize

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• hate
• despise
• loathe
• detest
• abhor
• refuse
• reject
• spurn
• decline
• abominate
• execrate

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

Recent Examples of crave

Creators are craving thoughtful, transparent, long-term representation, something that can only exist within a culture that genuinely invests in its managers. —Jennifer Maas, Variety, 9 Jan. 2026

Designers are craving excitement and color this season, manifesting this shift with maximalist bedding sporting punchy colors, big stripes, and winding patterns. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 8 Jan. 2026

The culture still craved commitment. —Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2026

Interior designer Nitya Seth, founder of Nityanamya, says today’s homeowners crave warmth and depth—especially in kitchens, which are increasingly used as gathering spaces. —Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 7 Jan. 2026