have a thirst for (something)
1. Literally, to feel thirsty, especially for some beverage in particular (which is named after "for"). On hot days like this, I always seem to have a thirst for lemonade.
2. To have an intense desire, yearning, or need for something. Even from a young age he had a thirst for knowledge, devouring any he could get his hands on. Growing up in such a small, secluded town, I constantly had a thirst for romance and adventure.
have a thirst for something
1. Lit. to be thirsty for something to drink. I have a thirst for a tall glass of iced tea.
2. Fig. to have a craving or desire for something. The tyrant had an intense thirst for power. The actor's thirst for fame caused him to become unscrupulous.