Lecher Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lecher

[หˆletสƒษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

inappropriate behavior

A lecher is a person who has strong sexual desires and behaves in a way that is considered inappropriate or offensive.

Synonyms

debauchee, lascivious person, pervert.

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Word Description / Examples
lecher

This word refers to someone who shows an excessive or inappropriate sexual desire. It's commonly used in a negative or judgmental context when describing someone's behavior.

  • He was known as a lecher who couldn't control his impulses.
  • His reputation as a lecher made people cautious around him.
lascivious person

A lascivious person is someone who demonstrates overt and often offensive sexual interest or behavior. This term is used to emphasize someone's lewdness or vulgarity.

  • His lascivious comments made everyone uncomfortable.
  • The law recognizes various behaviors as lascivious if they are intended to generate sexual excitement.
pervert

This word is harsh and pejorative, used to describe someone whose sexual behavior is considered abnormal or unacceptable. It often carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The community viewed him as a pervert due to his inappropriate actions.
  • Being called a pervert is highly insulting and damaging to someone's reputation.
debauchee

This term describes a person given to indulging in sensual pleasures or behaviors, typically implying a lifestyle of excessive partying and immoral conduct. Itโ€™s often used in historical or literary contexts.

  • The novel described the protagonist as a debauchee who squandered his fortune on wine and revelry.
  • In the 18th century, he was seen as a debauchee, living a life full of excess.

Examples of usage

  • He was known around the office as a lecher, always making inappropriate comments to his female coworkers.
  • The old man was often seen leering at young women, earning him a reputation as a lecher.
  • She felt uncomfortable around him, sensing his lecherous gaze upon her.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', lecherous behavior is critiqued through various characters that represent moral failings.
  • Shakespeare also presented lecherous characters, like Sir Toby Belch in 'Twelfth Night', highlighting the folly of such desires.
  • Influential works often depict lechers as figures of ridicule, reinforcing societal norms about sexual conduct.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varying tolerances for lecherous behavior, often influenced by religion and societal values.
  • In modern contexts, there has been a cultural shift with movements addressing sexual harassment, redefining what lecherous behavior entails.
  • Some cultures might romanticize such behavior in literature and film, but it often leads to real-life repercussions.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies suggest that lecherous behavior can stem from issues of self-esteem and power dynamics.
  • People exhibiting lecherous traits may seek validation through superficial relationships, often lacking deeper connections.
  • Understanding the psychological roots of such behavior can aid in addressing it in therapy or social behaviors.

Historical Context

  • Historically, lecherous behavior has been intertwined with discussions of morality, law, and reputation in various societies.
  • In the 18th and 19th centuries, legal systems began to penalize lecherous actions, reflecting changing views on sexual morality.
  • Satires from the Victorian era often mocked lecherous characters, highlighting the tension between public decency and private desires.

Origin of 'lecher'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Middle English term 'lecherous', which means filled with lust.
  • It traces further back to the Latin word 'licere', meaning 'to be permitted', hinting at a lack of self-control.
  • The term has been used in literature since the 14th century, showcasing its long-standing presence in English language.

The word 'lecher' originated from the Old French term 'lechier', which meant 'to lick' or 'to live in debauchery'. Over time, the word evolved to refer to someone with strong sexual desires and inappropriate behavior. The concept of a lecher has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history, often associated with lust and immorality.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,246, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.