Definition of the word lust for

The phrase "lust for" is a compound preposition that combines the words "lust" and "for" to describe a strong desire or craving for something. In Old English, "lust" meant any kind of intense and often physical appetite or desire, and "for" was a simple preposition meaning "towards" or "in order to obtain." As these words evolved in Middle English, the meaning of "lust" became more specific, referring to a strong sexual desire, while the meaning of "for" continued to develop into a more flexible preposition used in a variety of contexts. By the 14th century, the phrase "lust for" had emerged as a way to emphasize a person's powerful desire or longing for a particular object, goal, or experience. The compound preposition provided a concise and impactful way to convey the intensity of these desires, especially in the context of romantic or sexual relationships, where the use of "lust for" became particularly common. Today, the phrase continues to be widely used in English language, both in spoken and written communication, to describe a range of strong, often insatiable desires.