Licentious

/laɪˈsɛnʃəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Lacking legal or moral restraints, especially in sexual conduct.
The licentious behavior of the character in the novel shocked the more conservative members of the audience.
Sexually unrestrained; dissolute.
His licentious lifestyle ultimately led to his downfall.
Promoting or exhibiting a disregard for accepted norms in conduct, particularly relating to sexuality.
The artist was criticized for his licentious works that were deemed offensive by some critics.
Having a disregard for usual rules or conventions.
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

out of control sexually
After they got together, it was all very licentious and wild.
living with no regard for rules
He's living that licentious life without any cares.