What does lusting mean?
“Lusting” is the present participle of “lust” and is also used adjectivally to describe strong or overwhelming desire. Its most frequent sense is sexual: someone who is lusting after another person feels intense physical attraction and craving. It can also express a powerful nonsexual longing, as when someone is lusting for power, knowledge, freedom, or revenge. The word therefore often conveys an intensity that may be obsessive, dangerous, or morally compromising rather than merely a mild wish. In standard usage, the verb form appears with auxiliary verbs such as “is,” “was,” or “has been,” while “lusting” before a noun describes a quality or state, as in “lusting desire.” Although “lust” and “lusting” can apply to physical attraction, their implications are often stronger and more sensual than those of general words such as “liking” or “wanting.” In literary and historical contexts, “lusting” may also evoke a broader enthusiasm for pleasure, beauty, or fulfillment.
Having a strong sexual desire or an intense, often consuming desire for something.
"The villain's lusting obsession with the painting leads him to deceive the entire family."
The sexual sense is dominant. Nonsexual uses often suggest unusually strong, obsessive, or morally questionable ambition.
To desire strongly or intensely, especially in a sexual or obsessive way.
"The soldiers were lusting for home after months in the desert."
This is the present participle of “lust” and normally occurs with an auxiliary verb or forms of “be.”
Lusting can mean more than physical attraction: its ancient roots are connected with pleasure, joy, and intense craving.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lusting come from?
“Lusting” is derived from the English verb “lust,” which comes from Old English “lystan,” a word associated with pleasure, joy, and desire. Old English “lyst” and the related verb belong to a Germanic family that includes German “Lust” and Icelandic “listr.” The English cognate “list,” now archaic in the sense of pleasure or wish, reflects this older vocabulary, while “listless” developed from the same base.
Related word forms
How lusting is actually used
The word usually carries a sexual or strongly sensual connotation, although it can describe intense nonsexual ambition or longing. As a verb form, it normally follows a form of “be,” as in “he was lusting after revenge.” The attributive form “lusting desire” is more common than the bare noun use.
Easily confused with lusting
“Lusting” involves strong or sexual desire, whereas “lasting” means continuing to exist for a long time.