hungry

Part of Speech: Adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈhʌŋɡri/

Definitions:

• Adjective: Feeling the need or desire for food.
• Adjective: Having a strong desire or craving for something, often used metaphorically.

Usage Examples:

• She was so hungry that she ate the entire pizza.
• After a long day of hiking, we were all hungry for a big meal.
• He was hungry for success and worked tirelessly to achieve his goals.

Etymology:

The word "hungry" comes from the Old English word "hungor," meaning "hunger" or "starvation." It is related to the Proto-Germanic word "hungraz," and has connections to other Germanic languages such as Old High German "hungar" and Dutch "honger." Over time, the meaning expanded to include a metaphorical sense of craving or desire.

Synonyms:

• Starving
• Ravenous
• Famished
• Peckish
• Empty

Antonyms:

• Satisfied
• Full
• Content
• Replete

Translations:

Regional Pronunciation Variations:

In American English, "hungry" is often pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, while in British English, the second syllable may be pronounced slightly softer. In some regions of the UK, "hungry" can be shortened colloquially to "hungry" with less emphasis on the ending "ry" sound.

Historical Usage:

The term "hungry" has been used in English since the 13th century, originating from the Old English word "hungor," which meant hunger or famine. Its metaphorical use to describe a deep desire or craving, beyond the physical need for food, evolved over time in literature and conversation.

Cultural Nuances:

In many cultures, the feeling of hunger has symbolic significance, representing not just physical needs but also emotional or spiritual cravings. The concept of "hunger" is often tied to poverty, scarcity, or societal issues like food insecurity. In some cultures, the idea of "hunger" is also linked to fasting or spiritual purification, where hunger serves as a means of seeking enlightenment or self-discipline.

More Information:

The word "hungry" is more than just a physical condition. It has become a common metaphor for any strong craving or desire. For example, someone might feel "hungry" for knowledge or success. Understanding hunger from a psychological, social, and physiological perspective opens the door to addressing related issues such as hunger in the context of poverty and global food security challenges. Today, discussions surrounding hunger often include broader concerns about nutrition, sustainable food systems, and combating malnutrition worldwide.