devour

word

Definition

To eat something very quickly and eagerly, often because you are very hungry. It can also mean reading, watching, or using something with great enthusiasm.

Usage & Nuances

'Devour' is quite strong and vivid—used for people or animals eating quickly and hungrily, or for consuming information or entertainment eagerly. Less formal and more intense than 'eat' or 'consume'. Also figurative: 'devour a book', 'devour with eyes'. Not used for everyday meals in a neutral sense.

Example Sentences

The wolf devoured its food.

basic

She devoured the sandwich in seconds.

basic

The children devoured the cake at the party.

basic

He devoured the novel in one night because he couldn’t put it down.

natural

They sat by the fire, devouring stories and marshmallows.

natural

She devoured every bit of news about the singer’s life.

natural