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Licentious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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licentious

[lɪˈsɛnʃəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Promiscuous and unprincipled in sexual matters.

Synonyms

debauched, immoral, lewd.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
licentious

Often used to describe someone who is morally unrestrained or disregards accepted rules or conventions, especially in sexual matters. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • The licentious behavior of the partygoers shocked the neighbors.
  • His licentious lifestyle eventually led to his downfall.
immoral

Describes actions or behavior that go against accepted moral standards. It is a strong and straightforward term with a negative implication.

  • Stealing from the poor is an immoral act.
  • His immoral decisions caused a lot of pain to others.
lewd

Refers to behavior, comments, or gestures that are sexually explicit and offensive. It has a clear negative connotation.

  • His lewd remarks during the meeting were completely inappropriate.
  • The actor was criticized for his lewd behavior on set.
debauched

Used to describe excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, often including alcohol and drugs. Usually carries a negative meaning.

  • The debauched celebration lasted for days, leaving everyone exhausted.
  • She avoided his company due to his debauched habits.

Examples of usage

  • She was known for her licentious behavior at parties.
  • The novel portrays a group of licentious characters engaging in debauchery.
  • He was criticized for his licentious lifestyle.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Lacking legal or moral restraints; disregarding accepted rules or conventions.

Synonyms

lawless, uninhibited, unrestrained.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
licentious

This word is best used when describing behavior that is sexually unrestrained or disregarding accepted rules or conventions, particularly in a way considered immoral or inappropriate.

  • His licentious lifestyle shocked his conservative family.
  • The licentious behavior in the movie led to it being rated for mature audiences only.
unrestrained

This term is suitable for describing actions, emotions, or behaviors that are not controlled or limited. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

  • His unrestrained enthusiasm was infectious.
  • The crowd's unrestrained anger led to a riot.
lawless

Use this term to describe situations or places where laws are not observed or enforced, typically leading to chaos or disorder. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The town became lawless after the government collapsed.
  • In the lawless jungle, only the fittest survive.
uninhibited

This word is appropriate when referring to people who are free from social or moral constraints in their actions or expressions, usually in a positive or neutral sense.

  • She danced in an uninhibited manner, not caring who was watching.
  • The party was full of uninhibited laughter and joy.

Examples of usage

  • The city was known for its licentious nightlife.
  • The play depicted a society where licentious behavior was the norm.

Translations

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

Origin of 'licentious'

The word 'licentious' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Latin word 'licentiosus', meaning unrestrained. It has evolved to describe behavior that is promiscuous, unprincipled, and lacking moral restraints. Throughout history, the term has been used to criticize individuals or societies for their disregard of accepted rules and conventions.

See also: licentiousness.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,842, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.