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Fornication: meaning, definitions and examples

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fornication

 

[ ˌfɔːr.nɪˈkeɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sexual activity

Fornication refers to sexual intercourse between two people who are not married to each other. It is often considered a morally or legally questionable practice in various cultures and religions. Historically, fornication has been subject to different societal norms and legal implications depending on time and place. While some societies view it as a natural expression of human sexuality, others deem it inappropriate and associate it with stigmas. Consequently, the perception of fornication can vary significantly across different communities.

Synonyms

adultery, fornication outside marriage, illicit sexual relations

Examples of usage

  • They engaged in fornication despite knowing the societal rules.
  • The novel discusses themes of love and fornication in the 19th century.
  • Fornication was often condemned in religious teachings.
  • The couple faced criticism for their fornication.

Translations

Translations of the word "fornication" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fornicação

🇮🇳 व्यभिचार

🇩🇪 Unzucht

🇮🇩 perzinaan

🇺🇦 перелюба

🇵🇱 nieczystość

🇯🇵 姦淫

🇫🇷 fornication

🇪🇸 fornicación

🇹🇷 zina

🇰🇷 간음

🇸🇦 زنا

🇨🇿 cizoložství

🇸🇰 cudzoložstvo

🇨🇳 通奸

🇸🇮 prešuštvo

🇮🇸 fórn

🇰🇿 зинақорлық

🇬🇪 უღალტრობა

🇦🇿 zina

🇲🇽 fornicación

Etymology

The word 'fornication' originates from the Latin word 'fornicationem', which means 'prostitution'. This Latin term derives from 'fornix', meaning 'arch' or 'vault', referring to the locations where prostitutes would often solicit clients. In Roman times, the term became associated with illicit sexual relations taking place outside of marriage. Fornication began to carry negative connotations that aligned with moral and ethical standards of various cultures. Throughout history, laws and religious doctrines have defined fornication differently, reflecting the changing views on sexuality and marriage. In contemporary contexts, while fornication may still be deemed inappropriate in certain religious or cultural frameworks, it is increasingly accepted as part of modern relational dynamics.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,539, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.