Definition

Noun: 1. A natural desire or craving; a strong inclination or longing for something. This refers to an inherent, often physical or instinctive, yearning or urge. 2. A tendency or affinity towards something. This refers to a natural leaning or propensity.

Usage

The word "appetency" is a formal and somewhat literary term. It describes a powerful, innate desire or leaning, stronger than a simple "want" and often with a connotation of being driven by instinct or a deep-seated need. It is typically followed by the preposition "for" or "toward(s)".

Examples

• Noun:
  • He felt a powerful appetency for knowledge that drove all his studies.
  • The advertisement was designed to stimulate an appetency for luxury goods.
  • Her appetency for adventure led her to travel to remote parts of the world.

Advanced Usage

• "Appetency of the mind": A philosophical or literary phrase describing intellectual cravings or the innate desire for understanding.
  • The great books are meant to satisfy the appetency of the mind.
• In philosophical or biological contexts, it can describe an instinctive tendency in living organisms.
  • The plant's roots show an appetency toward moisture.

Variants and Related Words

• Appetence (noun): An alternative, less common spelling with the same meaning.
• Appetite (noun): A more common word for a desire, especially for food or pleasure. "Appetency" is often a synonym but can sound more formal or technical.
• Appetitive (adjective): Of or relating to appetite or desire.
  • Appetitive behavior is driven by biological needs.

Synonyms

• Craving
• Longing
• Yearning
• Hankering
• Propensity
• Inclination
• Proclivity

Antonyms

• Aversion
• Disgust
• Revulsion
• Indifference
• Distaste

Noun

1. a feeling of craving something
   • an appetite for life
   • the object of life is to satisfy as many appetencies as possible- Granville Hicks