'power-hunger' is a modern English compound formed from 'power' + 'hunger', where 'power' comes from Old French 'povoir'/'pouvoir' (from Latin roots meaning 'to be able') and 'hunger' comes from Old English 'hungor' meaning 'hunger, desire'.

'power' entered English via Old French and Middle English as 'pou(er)/power', while 'hunger' descended from Old English 'hungor'; the metaphorical sense of 'hunger' (meaning 'strong desire') developed over time, allowing the compounds like 'power-hunger' to form in modern English.

Initially 'hunger' referred to physical need for food, but its figurative sense 'strong desire' became common; combined with 'power' it evolved into the current meaning 'a strong desire for power.'