noun
addiction, craving
B1
Sucht (die, plural: Süchte) means addiction or craving. Refers to pathological dependence or strong desire. Common collocation: Sucht nach + dative (e.g., Sucht nach Drogen). Countable plural Süchte (umlaut + -e). Can be used figuratively (Sucht nach Erfolg). Feminine article die; not to be confused with verb suchen.
Examples
Viele Familien litten unter der Sucht eines Angehörigen, weil die Behandlung zu teuer war.
Many families suffered from a relative's addiction because the treatment was too expensive.
Er kämpft mit seiner Sucht nach Nikotin.
He's struggling with his nicotine addiction.
Nach dem Essen verspürte sie eine starke Sucht nach Schokolade.
After the meal she felt a strong craving for chocolate.
Details
Mnemonics
a person reaching for chocolate again and again with the word 'Sucht' above them
sounds like 'sought' — imagine someone constantly seeking something they can't stop wanting
die — imagine a small 'die' (dice) painted pink (feminine) next to the craving
Notes
Used for both clinical addiction (alcohol, drugs) and strong habitual cravings. Singular is common; plural 'Süchte' exists but is less frequent.