'power-hungry' originates from the combination of 'power' and 'hungry,' where 'power' refers to control or authority, and 'hungry' implies a strong desire or craving.

'power' and 'hungry' have been used in English since the Middle Ages, but the compound 'power-hungry' became more common in the 20th century.

Initially, 'hungry' meant a physical need for food, but in 'power-hungry,' it evolved to mean a metaphorical craving for authority.