The phrase "was want" means to have a habitual desire or need for something. There are several synonyms for this phrase including "always desired," "craved," "yearned for," "longed for," "wanted," "needed," and "sought after." Other synonyms include "had an inclination for," "had a penchant for," "had a hankering for," "tended to seek," "frequently desired," and "was partial to." Using synonyms can help to vary your writing and avoid repetition, while still effectively conveying the intended meaning. Regardless of the synonym used, the underlying idea is that the individual consistently had a strong desire or need for something.