1. An overwhelming desire or craving for more than what one already has: The dictator had a lust to extend his power and the control of his country.
2. An intense eagerness or enthusiasm for something: Emily had a lust for a full and richer life.
3. Etymology: once it was a harmless term which meant pleasure or delight. It is traced back to a Germanic word that meant to long for.

Longings often go in one direction and centuries ago, lust started to refer to sinful and sensual appetites, or to low animal passions, and it is this meaning of the word that has survived over time.

To have a very strong desire to obtain or to achieve something: Quentin has been lusting for a particular job for a long time.

The old miser is still lusting after money.

Lorie has been lusting to be a movie star.

Is the word lust a vulgar or dirty term to use?

Although lust may not be considered a dirty word, it has strong connotations. People don't have a lust for something they don't care about, but they do lust for things that they strongly desire.

In other words, lust is a strong, powerful desire, whether it's a noun or a verb, because people lust for things they deeply crave or want; for example, many people have greedy lusts for a lot of money.

People need to remember that humans lust for all kinds of things; such as, food, alcohol, drugs, health, comfort, entertainment, success, abundance, recognition, security, attention, a high-paying job, and so many other things!

Latin: light up, shine; in this unit.