English Lexicon

Wanderlust

/ˈwɒn.də.lʌst/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #15400 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A strong, innate desire to travel and explore the world.

    "Her sudden burst of wanderlust led her to book a one-way ticket to Southeast Asia."
  2. 2

    An intense urge for wandering or trekking across distant places.

    "He spent his youth satisfying his wanderlust by backpacking across various continents."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the German words 'wandern' (to hike or wander) and 'Lust' (desire or pleasure), entering the English lexicon in the early 20th century. Originally reflecting the German Romantic tradition of foot travel and nature appreciation, the term evolved to denote a strong, innate impulse to travel and explore the world.

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