The phrase "lust after" is spelled using the /lʌst/ sound for the word "lust" and the /ˈɑːftər/ sound for "after". The /l/ sound is made by placing the tongue against the alveolar ridge and releasing air, while the /ʌ/ sound is made by slightly lowering the jaw and spreading the lips slightly. The /ˈɑː/ sound is made by opening the mouth wide and creating a low, open vowel sound, and the /ftər/ sound is made by placing the tongue against the upper teeth and releasing air.
The verb phrase "lust after" is used to describe an intense desire or strong attraction towards someone or something, often of a sexual nature. When individuals "lust after" someone or something, they experience a strong longing or craving, typically accompanied by fantasies or fantasies of engaging in sexual activities or obtaining the desired object. This term implies a passionate yearning that goes beyond a mere liking or admiration, incorporating elements of physical desire and longing.
While "lust after" primarily invokes thoughts of sexual desire, it is not exclusively limited to this context. It can also extend to an intense longing for material possessions, power, or other forms of gratification. For instance, someone may "lust after" wealth, fame, or success, implying that they have an insatiable thirst and fervent desire to possess such attributes.
The phrase "lust after" is often associated with a strong, primal and irrational drive, lacking control or limitations. It highlights an overwhelming infatuation that can consume an individual's thoughts and actions, sometimes to the detriment of their rational judgment. Given its powerful connotation, "lust after" generally suggests an element of recklessness or indulgence in pursuing one's desires, disregarding any potential consequences or ethical considerations.
In summary, "lust after" refers to an intense longing or craving, often of a sexual nature, coupled with an unrestrained desire to possess or engage with someone or something. It conveys a deep, sometimes irrational infatuation that can dominate an individual's thoughts and actions, extending beyond mere admiration or attraction.
The word "lust after" combines the nouns "lust" and "after", which have separate etymologies.
The noun "lust" originates from the Old English term "lust", meaning "desire, appetite, pleasure". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic "lustuz", which shares the same meaning. This Proto-Germanic word ultimately goes back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*las-", meaning "to want, desire".
The preposition "after" comes from the Old English term "æfter", which signifies "behind in place, time or order". "Æfter" can be derived from the Proto-Germanic "*aftara", which carries the same meaning. This Proto-Germanic word also traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*apo", meaning "off, away".