Meaning & Definition of word "Licentious"

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.