Top 43 Slang For Urge – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing that irresistible desire or urge, the English language has no shortage of slang words and phrases to capture the feeling. From the casual to the quirky, we’ve rounded up the top slang for urge that you need to know. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and learn some new ways to describe that strong, overwhelming need that just can’t be ignored. Don’t miss out on this exciting listicle that will have you nodding your head and saying, “Yep, that’s exactly how I feel!”

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1. Craving

A craving is a strong desire or longing for something. It often refers to a specific type of desire, such as a craving for food or a craving for a certain activity.

For example, “I have a craving for chocolate ice cream.”
Someone might say, “I can’t resist my craving for pizza.”
A person trying to quit smoking might say, “I’m struggling with cravings for cigarettes.”

2. Itch

To have an itch means to have a strong urge or desire for something. It can be used to describe a variety of desires, from a physical itch to an emotional or psychological urge.

For instance, “I have an itch to travel the world.”
A person might say, “I can’t ignore the itch to buy a new car.”
Someone might admit, “I have an itch to check my phone every few minutes.”

3. Hankering

A hankering is a strong yearning or craving for something. It often implies a persistent desire or longing for a particular thing or experience.

For example, “I have a hankering for some homemade apple pie.”
A person might say, “I’ve had a hankering to visit Paris for years.”
Someone might admit, “I can’t shake this hankering for adventure.”

4. Longing

Longing refers to an intense desire or yearning for something. It often conveys a sense of deep emotional or sentimental longing for someone or something.

For instance, “I feel a longing for my childhood home.”
A person might say, “I can’t shake this longing for a lost love.”
Someone might admit, “I have a longing to be free from my responsibilities.”

5. Thirst

To have a thirst means to have a strong craving or desire for something. It can be used metaphorically to describe a strong desire for knowledge, success, or fulfillment.

For example, “I have a thirst for adventure.”
A person might say, “I can’t quench my thirst for knowledge.”
Someone might admit, “I have a thirst for success that keeps me motivated.”

6. Yearning

A strong desire or craving for something or someone. It often refers to a deep emotional or romantic longing.

For example, “I have a yearning to travel the world and experience new cultures.”
A person might express their yearning for a lost love by saying, “I can’t stop thinking about them. The yearning is unbearable.”
Someone might describe their yearning for success by saying, “I have a yearning to achieve greatness in my career and make a difference in the world.”

7. Impulse

A sudden, strong urge or desire to do something. It often refers to an instinctive or impulsive action without much thought or consideration.

For instance, “I had an impulse to buy that dress even though I didn’t need it.”
A person might act on an impulse and say, “I couldn’t resist the impulse to eat the entire chocolate cake.”
Someone might describe their impulse to travel by saying, “I booked a spontaneous trip to Paris on a whim. I couldn’t resist the impulse to explore a new city.”

8. Drive

A strong internal force or desire that compels someone to take action or achieve a goal. It often refers to a determined and persistent mindset.

For example, “His drive to succeed pushed him to work long hours and overcome obstacles.”
A person might say, “I have a drive to make a positive impact on the world and leave a lasting legacy.”
Someone might describe their drive for fitness by saying, “My drive to stay healthy and fit motivates me to exercise regularly and eat nutritious food.”

9. Urge

A strong and intense desire or impulse to do or have something. It often refers to a powerful and irresistible inclination.

For instance, “I have an urge to eat a slice of pizza even though I just had dinner.”
A person might express their urge to travel by saying, “I feel an urge to explore new destinations and immerse myself in different cultures.”
Someone might describe their urge to succeed by saying, “I have an urge to achieve my goals and prove myself in my career.”

10. Itching

A metaphorical term used to describe a strong desire or yearning for something. It often refers to a persistent and nagging feeling of wanting or needing something.

For example, “I have an itching to try out a new hobby or learn a new skill.”
A person might express their itching for adventure by saying, “I feel an itching to go on a thrilling outdoor expedition.”
Someone might describe their itching for success by saying, “I have an itching to reach new heights in my career and accomplish great things.”

11. Hunger

This is a strong desire or need for food. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a strong desire for something other than food.

For instance, “I have a hunger for pizza right now.”
In a conversation about motivation, someone might say, “I have a hunger for success.”
A person might express their excitement by saying, “I have a hunger for adventure.”

12. Passion

Passion refers to a strong and intense desire or enthusiasm for something. It can be used to describe a strong urge to pursue a particular interest or activity.

For example, “She has a passion for painting.”
A person might say, “I have a passion for music.”
In a discussion about career choices, someone might say, “Follow your passion and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

13. Itching to

To itch to do something means to have a strong desire or urge to do it. It implies a sense of restlessness or eagerness to take action.

For instance, “I’m itching to go on vacation.”
In a conversation about trying something new, someone might say, “I’m itching to try skydiving.”
A person might express their excitement by saying, “I’m itching to start my new job.”

14. Burn

To burn for something means to have a strong desire or craving for it. It implies a sense of passion or intensity in one’s desire.

For example, “He has a burn for adventure.”
A person might say, “I have a burn for success.”
In a discussion about personal goals, someone might say, “I have a burn for achieving my dreams.”

15. Need

Need refers to a strong necessity or desire for something. It can be used to describe a strong urge or craving for a particular thing or action.

For instance, “I need a cup of coffee to wake up.”
In a conversation about shopping, someone might say, “I need a new pair of shoes.”
A person might express their longing by saying, “I need a vacation to relax.”

16. Crave

To have an intense longing or yearning for something or someone.

For example, “I’m craving a slice of pizza right now.”
A person might say, “I’m craving some adventure in my life.”
Another might say, “I’m craving some alone time to recharge.”

17. Thirsting

To have a strong desire or craving for something, often used in a more intense or exaggerated way.

For instance, “I’m thirsting for success in my career.”
A person might say, “I’m thirsting for some excitement and new experiences.”
Another might say, “I’m thirsting for a vacation to escape the daily grind.”

18. Ache

To feel a deep or persistent longing or yearning for something or someone.

For example, “My heart aches for my loved ones who are far away.”
A person might say, “I ache for a sense of purpose in my life.”
Another might say, “I ache for the feeling of being truly understood.”

19. Pining

To have a strong desire or longing for something or someone, often used to describe a more intense or heartfelt longing.

For instance, “I’m pining for a lost love.”
A person might say, “I’m pining for the carefree days of my youth.”
Another might say, “I’m pining for a sense of belonging and connection.”

20. Impel

To strongly urge or compel someone to do something or take action.

For example, “His passion for justice impels him to fight for what’s right.”
A person might say, “The desire to explore new horizons impels me to travel.”
Another might say, “The need to protect his family impels him to take risks.”

21. Jonesin’

The term “jonesin'” is often used to describe a strong desire or craving for something, usually related to a substance or activity.

For example, “I’m jonesin’ for a cup of coffee right now.”
A person trying to quit smoking might say, “I’ve been jonesin’ for a cigarette all day.”
Someone who loves chocolate might exclaim, “I’m always jonesin’ for a piece of chocolate!”

22. Jonesing

Similar to “jonesin'”, “jonesing” is used to describe the act of experiencing a strong desire or craving for something.

For instance, “I’ve been jonesing for a vacation for months.”
A person on a diet might say, “I’ve been jonesing for a slice of pizza all week.”
Someone addicted to social media might admit, “I’ve been jonesing to check my notifications.”

23. Yen

The term “yen” is often used to describe a strong longing or craving for something, similar to “jonesin'” or “jonesing”.

For example, “I have a yen for some ice cream right now.”
A person missing their hometown might say, “I have a yen to visit my family.”
Someone in need of a break might express, “I have a yen for a relaxing vacation.”

24. Desperation

Desperation refers to a state of intense urgency or need. It can be used to describe a strong urge or craving for something.

For instance, “I’m in desperation need of a cup of coffee.”
A person trying to find a job might say, “I’m feeling desperation to secure employment.”
Someone longing for companionship might exclaim, “I’m in desperation for a romantic partner.”

25. Impatience

Impatience refers to a lack of patience and the feeling of restlessness or eagerness to fulfill a desire or urge.

For example, “I’m feeling impatience waiting for my food to arrive.”
A person waiting for a promotion might say, “I’m growing impatience with the lack of progress.”
Someone eager to start a new project might express, “I’m filled with impatience to get started.”

26. Itchiness

This term refers to a strong desire or longing for something. “Itchiness” is often used metaphorically to describe an intense urge that needs to be satisfied.

For example, someone might say, “I have an itchiness for adventure, I need to travel and explore new places.”
In a conversation about food, one might say, “I have an itchiness for pizza, I can’t stop thinking about it.”
A person discussing their career goals might say, “I have an itchiness for success, I’m driven to achieve my dreams.”

27. Thirstiness

This term is used to describe a strong desire or need for something, often used metaphorically to express an intense urge.

For instance, someone might say, “I have a thirstiness for knowledge, I’m always seeking to learn new things.”
In a discussion about success, one might say, “I have a thirstiness for success, I’m willing to work hard to achieve my goals.”
A person talking about their love life might say, “I have a thirstiness for romance, I’m looking for a meaningful relationship.”

28. Hunger pangs

This term refers to intense feelings of hunger or a strong desire for food. “Hunger pangs” are often used to describe the physical sensation of hunger.

For example, someone might say, “I have hunger pangs for pizza, I need to satisfy my craving.”
In a conversation about dieting, one might say, “I’m trying to ignore my hunger pangs and stick to my healthy eating plan.”
A person discussing their favorite foods might say, “Thinking about my mom’s cooking always gives me hunger pangs.”

29. Impulsiveness

This term describes a tendency to act on sudden impulses or urges without thinking about the consequences. “Impulsiveness” often refers to a lack of self-control in the face of strong desires.

For instance, someone might say, “His impulsiveness often gets him into trouble, he can’t resist acting on his urges.”
In a discussion about shopping habits, one might say, “I need to control my impulsiveness when it comes to buying clothes.”
A person talking about their decision-making process might say, “I’m trying to be more mindful and less impulsive in my choices.”

30. Longingness

This term describes a deep and intense desire for something or someone. “Longingness” often conveys a sense of yearning or longing that is difficult to satisfy.

For example, someone might say, “I have a longingness for my hometown, I miss it so much.”
In a conversation about relationships, one might say, “I have a longingness for a partner who understands and supports me.”
A person discussing their dreams and aspirations might say, “I have a longingness for success, I’m willing to work hard to achieve my goals.”

31. Impulsion

Impulsion is a term used to describe a strong and sudden urge or impulse to do something. It signifies a powerful desire or motivation to take action.

For example, “I felt an impulsion to buy that dress as soon as I saw it.”
A person might say, “I had an impulsion to eat ice cream, so I went to the store and bought a pint.”
In a conversation about travel, someone might mention, “I have an impulsion to explore new places and experience different cultures.”

32. Yearn

To yearn means to have a strong and intense longing or desire for something or someone. It conveys a deep emotional or physical craving for a particular thing or experience.

For instance, “I yearn for the day when I can travel the world.”
A person might say, “I yearn for a sense of purpose in my life.”
In a discussion about relationships, someone might express, “I yearn to be loved and understood by my partner.”

33. Desperate need

Desperate need refers to a strong and urgent desire for something, often accompanied by a feeling of desperation or urgency. It conveys a sense of necessity or craving that cannot be easily ignored.

For example, “I have a desperate need for caffeine in the morning.”
A person might say, “I’m in a desperate need for a vacation; I feel completely burned out.”
In a conversation about success, someone might mention, “I have a desperate need to prove myself and achieve my goals.”

34. Restlessness

Restlessness refers to a state of feeling unsettled, uneasy, or unable to relax. It signifies a strong inner urge or agitation that makes it difficult to stay still or find contentment.

For instance, “I couldn’t sleep last night; I was overwhelmed by restlessness.”
A person might say, “I feel a restlessness in my soul; I need to make a change in my life.”
In a discussion about creativity, someone might express, “Restlessness often fuels my artistic inspiration.”

35. Burning desire

A burning desire refers to an intense and passionate longing or craving for something. It conveys a strong and fervent urge that cannot be easily extinguished.

For example, “She had a burning desire to become a successful entrepreneur.”
A person might say, “I have a burning desire to prove everyone wrong and achieve my dreams.”
In a conversation about love, someone might mention, “I felt a burning desire for him from the moment I met him.”

36. Impulsive behavior

Impulsive behavior refers to acting without thinking or considering the consequences. It often involves making quick decisions or taking actions based on immediate desires or impulses.

For example, someone might engage in impulsive behavior by buying something expensive on a whim.
In a discussion about decision-making, one might say, “It’s important to pause and think before giving in to impulsive behavior.”
A therapist might work with a client to identify triggers and develop strategies for managing impulsive behavior.

37. Needing

“Needing” refers to a strong desire or requirement for something. It indicates a sense of urgency or a feeling of lacking without the desired object or experience.

For instance, someone might say, “I’m really needing a vacation right now.”
In a conversation about cravings, one might mention, “I’m needing some chocolate right now.”
A person might express their emotional state by saying, “I’m needing some alone time to recharge.”

38. Hungering

To “hunger” for something means to have an intense craving or longing for it. It implies a strong desire or need that is difficult to ignore.

For example, someone might say, “I’m hungering for adventure and new experiences.”
In a discussion about ambition, one might mention, “I’m hungering for success and recognition.”
A person might express their desire for love by saying, “I’m hungering for a deep and meaningful connection.”

39. Burning

When something is described as “burning,” it indicates an intense desire or passion for it. The term implies a strong and consuming longing that cannot easily be extinguished.

For instance, someone might say, “I have a burning desire to travel the world.”
In a conversation about career goals, one might mention, “I have a burning passion for helping others.”
A person might express their romantic feelings by saying, “I have a burning love for my partner.”

40. Desiring

To “desire” something means to want or long for it. It indicates a feeling of wanting or craving something that is currently out of reach.

For example, someone might say, “I am desiring a new car.”
In a discussion about personal goals, one might mention, “I am desiring a promotion at work.”
A person might express their longing for a specific experience by saying, “I am desiring to travel to a tropical paradise.”

41. Lusting

This term refers to a strong desire or craving for something or someone. It often implies a sexual or passionate longing.

For example, “I’m lusting after that new car.”
Someone might say, “She couldn’t resist lusting after him.”
A person discussing their cravings might say, “I’m lusting for some chocolate right now.”

42. Aching

When someone is “aching” for something, it means they have a strong and intense longing or desire for it.

For instance, “She’s aching for a vacation.”
A person might say, “I’m aching to see my loved ones.”
Someone discussing their yearning for success might say, “I’m aching to achieve my goals.”

43. Coveting

This term refers to an envious desire to possess something that belongs to someone else. It implies a strong longing or craving for something that is not easily attainable.

For example, “She couldn’t help but covet her friend’s designer handbag.”
A person might say, “I’m coveting that new smartphone.”
Someone discussing their jealousy might say, “I can’t help but covet his success.”