noun
das Fernweh, null
wanderlust
The German word "Fernweh" is a noun meaning "longing for distant places", or simply "wanderlust".
Breakdown of the components (excluding prefixes):
- Fern = distant, far away
- Weh = pain, ache
So, literally, "Fernweh" means an "ache for far-off places."
Similar words:
- Reiselust (desire to travel)
- Wanderlust (strong desire to wander/travel)
- Heimweh (homesickness, the opposite feeling)
Difference:
- Fernweh expresses a positive feeling of yearning to explore the world.
- Heimweh is the negative feeling of missing home.
- Wanderlust and Reiselust are close synonyms but emphasize enthusiasm or passion for travel rather than the emotional ache implied by "Fernweh."
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Examples
Sie hat oft Fernweh.noun
She often has wanderlust.
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