What is the Russian word for lover?

There isn't one single Russian word that perfectly translates to "lover" in all its nuances. It depends on the context and the specific type of love you're referring to.

Here are some options:

For a romantic lover:

* Любовник (lyubovnik): This is the most common word for a male lover, particularly in a romantic or extramarital relationship.

* Любовница (lyubovnitsa): This is the feminine equivalent of "lyubovnik," used for a female lover.

* Возлюбленный (vozlyublennyy): This word is more formal and can be used for a beloved person, but also for a lover.

* Возлюбленная (vozlyublennaya): The feminine form of "vozlyublennyy."

For a person you have a strong affection for:

* Любимый (lyubimy): This means "beloved" and can be used for someone you love romantically or platonically.

* Любимая (lyubimaya): The feminine form of "lyubimy."

For a person you're passionately in love with:

* Страстный (strastnyy): This means "passionate," and can be used to describe a lover.

* Страстная (strastnaya): The feminine form of "strastnyy."

It's important to choose the right word based on the specific context and the relationship between the people involved.