# hanker after

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hanker-after
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to want something very much, especially something you used to have or something that is difficult to get.

For teachers: to have a strong, persistent desire for something; often used to describe a nostalgic or unrealistic longing for the past or for unattainable status.

## Examples

- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She hankers to a new car." but "She hankers after a new car." — the verb 'hanker' must be followed by the preposition 'after' or 'for' to connect to the object.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun or a gerund; 'hanker for' is a common and acceptable alternative.
- Teaching tip: 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.