hanker after
phrasal verb.phrasal verb. to want something very much, especially something you used to have or something that is difficult to get.
phrasal verb. to have a strong, persistent desire for something; often used to describe a nostalgic or unrealistic longing for the past or for unattainable status.
Many people hanker after a simpler life in the countryside.
Even after years of living in the city, he still hankers after the quiet winters of his childhood home.
The aging politician clearly hankers after the influence he once wielded within the party's inner circle.
usually followed by a noun or a gerund; 'hanker for' is a common and acceptable alternative.
contrast with 'crave' (which is more physical/urgent) and 'long for' (which is more emotional); 'hanker' often carries a slight sense of dissatisfaction with the present.
She hankers to a new car.She hankers after a new car.the verb 'hanker' must be followed by the preposition 'after' or 'for' to connect to the object.
Last updated April 24, 2026