Meaning & Definition of word "Licentious"

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    Licentious

    /laɪˈsɛnʃəs/

    adjective:

    • 1. Lacking legal or moral restraints, especially in sexual conduct.
      • Example: The licentious behavior of the character in the novel shocked the more conservative members of the audience.
    • 2. Sexually unrestrained; dissolute.
      • Example: His licentious lifestyle ultimately led to his downfall.
    • 3. Promoting or exhibiting a disregard for accepted norms in conduct, particularly relating to sexuality.
      • Example: The artist was criticized for his licentious works that were deemed offensive by some critics.
    • 4. Having a disregard for usual rules or conventions.
      • Example: The licentious comments in the magazine sparked a debate about freedom of expression.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'licentiosus', from 'licentia' meaning freedom or license.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    licentious behavior:

    behavior that is morally questionable or promiscuous.

    licentious lifestyle:

    a way of living that is indulgent and lacking in moral restraint.

    licentious desires:

    wishes or urges that are morally unacceptable or excessive.

    Related Words

    license:

    the permission to act, often related to moral or legal boundaries.

    licentiousness:

    the quality of being licentious.

    Slang Meanings of licentious

    Meaning: out of control sexually

    Example Sentence: After they got together, it was all very licentious and wild.

    Meaning: living with no regard for rules

    Example Sentence: He's living that licentious life without any cares.