Wanderlust

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈwɒndəlʌst/

Definitions

1. A deep-seated yearning for travel and discovery often inspires people to embark on journeys across various landscapes and cultures
2. An intense craving for exploration and adventure frequently propels individuals to seek out new experiences in different parts of the world
3. A strong desire to explore new places and cultures can drive individuals to pursue adventures and travel extensively in search of enriching experiences

Etymology: The English word is a loan from German, and its two halves are easy to read: "wandern" means to wander or hike, and "Lust" means desire, pleasure or fun. Put together, German speakers used it for an urge to travel and a love of the open air, a sense that is somewhat warmer than the plain idea of wanting to go somewhere. English took the compound more or less whole, so the word still carries that German flavour of the outdoors and the open road. Both parts have long pedigrees in German. "Wandern" traces back through Middle High German, and "Lust" likewise, so the compound was already a familiar pairing before English borrowed it. The English form keeps the same two elements, "wander" and "lust", which is why the word is easy to take apart even for speakers who have never studied German.

Synonyms: travel desire, exploration urge