for want of something

for (the) want of (something)

Because something is lacking or missing. For want of vegetable oil, I added olive oil to the recipe and hoped for the best.See also: of, want

for (the) want of something

because of a lack of something; because something is not available: For the want of a better name, I’m calling this book ‘My Early Years’. ♢ We went for a walk for want of anything better to do.See also: of, something, want