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Lecherously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lecherously

[ˈlɛtʃərəsli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

behavior description

In a lecherously manner refers to acting in a way that is overtly sexual, often in a manner that is inappropriate or disrespectful towards others. It suggests a strong, often excessive interest in sexual activities, particularly in a way that objectifies or degrades individuals.

Synonyms

debauchedly, lasciviously, licentiously, wantonly.

Examples of usage

  • He looked at her lecherously, making her uncomfortable.
  • The old man lecherously admired the young women at the party.
  • His lecherously remarks during the meeting were uncalled for.
  • She turned away, offended by his lecherously gaze.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic works explore the theme of lecherous characters, often portraying them as villains or misguided individuals.
  • Shakespeare often used lecherous characters to evoke moral lessons in plays like 'Othello' and 'Hamlet'.
  • Modern novels frequently depict the struggles of characters battling societal expectations versus personal desires.

Psychology

  • Lecherous behavior can stem from various psychological issues, including lack of self-control or unrealistic sexual expectations.
  • Studies show that lecherous attitudes can be linked to early exposure to sexual content, influencing behavior later in life.
  • The concept of lechery challenges societal norms about sexuality, raising questions about consent and moral boundaries.

Pop Culture

  • In film and television, lecherous characters often serve as comic relief or as cautionary figures, illustrating the consequences of their desires.
  • Songs and music videos sometimes glorify lecherous behavior, sparking debates about sexuality and objectification.
  • Through the years, lecherous portrayals have evolved, reflecting changing attitudes toward sexuality in society.

Legal Perspectives

  • Many legal definitions of sexual harassment include lecherous behavior as a factor for civil complaints.
  • Social movements against sexual harassment often address lecherous behavior in workplaces and public spaces.
  • In some cultures, lechery is heavily stigmatized and legally banned, affecting personal freedoms and labor laws.

Origin of 'lecherously'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'luxuriosus', which means 'excessive' or 'wanton'.
  • It has roots in the old French word 'lecher', meaning 'to desire'.
  • The term has been in use in English since the early 1600s.

The adverb 'lecherously' is derived from the adjective 'lecherous,' which comes from the Middle English term 'lecherous' meaning 'given to lechery' or 'lustful'. The root of this word is traced back to the Old French term 'lecher,' which itself is derived from the Latin verb 'lascivire,' meaning 'to act wantonly.' The term has evolved over time to describe not just a tendency towards lechery, or excessive sexual appetite but also the way in which such tendencies are displayed, often in a disrespectful or crude manner. Lechery has a long-standing negative connotation, often associated with immorality and debauchery, and describing someone as acting lecherously implies a lack of self-control regarding sexual desires, making this term particularly evocative in contexts involving relationships and personal conduct.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,329, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.