Dictionary yenStrong desire

noun

yen

A strong desire or craving.

She has a yen for something sweet.

Etymology

yenChinesecraving or addiction

The source is associated with craving, especially in opium-related usage. English broadened it to any strong desire for something.

More examples

He felt a sudden yen to travel.
The smell gave me a yen for fresh bread.
Their yen for adventure brought them together.

Forms

yen · yens

Similar words

craving: A strong desire.
longing: A persistent wish for something.