Which word suggests a longing that is not easily fulfilled?

The term "hankering" effectively conveys a sense of longing or craving that is often persistent and difficult to satisfy. It denotes not only a desire for something but also a feeling that this desire may remain unfulfilled or elusive. People often use "hankering" to describe a deep, often wistful yearning for something that perhaps feels out of reach or takes time to attain. This aligns with the idea of a longing that is not easily fulfilled, as it implies a continuous, nagging desire that lingers without resolution.

In contrast, "desire" generally denotes a wish or want, which does not inherently carry the implication of being unattainable. "Satisfaction" refers to the state of having one's needs or desires met, thus directly opposing the idea of an unfulfilled longing. Finally, "apathy" describes a state of indifference or lack of interest, which does not convey any sense of longing at all. Hence, "hankering" is the most appropriate choice for expressing a longing that is not easily fulfilled.