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Hanker Meaning in English

word

ˈhæŋkɝ
HANG-ker
hˈæŋkɐ
HANG-kuh

Definition

To have a strong and persistent desire for something, often something you cannot have or is hard to get.

Usage & Nuances

"Hanker" is somewhat formal or literary and often used with 'after' or 'for' (e.g., 'hanker after adventure'). Typically means a deep, ongoing desire, not just a brief wish. Rarely used in everyday casual speech.

Example Sentences

Sometimes I hanker for a quiet day at home.

basic

She hankers after her childhood memories.

basic

Do you ever hanker for adventure?

basic

After years in the city, I hanker after fresh mountain air.

natural

He always hankered for something more exciting than his routine job.

natural

On cold days, I hanker for my grandmother's soup.

natural