hankers

The term "hankers" is a colloquial expression derived from the verb "to hanker," which signifies a strong longing or desire for something. It often implies a nostalgic or sentimental yearning for a past experience, person, place, or even a specific food. The intensity of the feeling can range from a mild craving to a deep-seated ache.

While not a formal psychological term, the concept of hankering describes a common human experience. It can be triggered by sensory cues, such as a particular smell or sound, which can evoke memories and associated desires. The object of a hanker is often something that provides comfort, pleasure, or a sense of belonging.

Psychologically, hankering might be linked to memory retrieval and emotional associations. The desire can be a way of seeking fulfillment of unmet needs or a longing for a past state of happiness. It is a subjective experience, varying greatly from person to person and from one situation to another. The phrase is frequently used in informal conversation to describe these intense, often wistful, desires.