Licentiousness: meaning, definitions and examples

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licentiousness

[laɪˈsɛnʃəsnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sexual behavior

Licentiousness refers to the lack of moral or sexual restraints, leading to promiscuity or debauchery.

Synonyms

debauchery, immorality, promiscuity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
licentiousness	Licentiousness is often used to describe a lack of moral discipline, especially in sexual behavior. It implies a disregard for social and moral standards. The novel depicted a society on the brink of collapse, rife with licentiousness and corruption. His licentiousness led to numerous scandals that tarnished his reputation.
promiscuity	Promiscuity is specifically related to having multiple sexual partners, often without the commitment to any of them. It is generally viewed negatively in many cultures. His promiscuity in college was well-known among his peers. The article discusses the consequences of promiscuity in modern society.
debauchery	Debauchery refers to excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures, often involving a lot of partying with alcohol and drugs. It conveys a sense of moral decline and can be used in both historical and modern contexts. The king's court was known for its debauchery and excess. After a weekend of debauchery, he felt the need to rethink his lifestyle.
immorality	Immorality is a broader term that refers to actions or behavior that go against moral or ethical principles. It can apply to various forms of unethical conduct, not just related to sexual behavior. The movie addresses themes of immorality and the consequences it brings. She couldn't condone the immorality of cheating on exams.

Examples of usage

The party was filled with licentiousness, with people engaging in inappropriate behavior.
His licentiousness eventually led to the downfall of his reputation.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general behavior

Licentiousness can also refer to a disregard for rules or societal norms, often leading to chaotic or unruly behavior.

Synonyms

chaotic behavior, disregard for rules, unruliness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
licentiousness	Used when describing immoral or sexually unrestrained behavior. Often appears in formal or literary contexts with a negative connotation. The novel's protagonist justified his licentiousness as a form of rebellion against societal norms
disregard for rules	Used when talking about someone's intentional neglect or defiance of rules and regulations. It can be used in formal and informal contexts, often with a critical tone. His blatant disregard for rules eventually got him expelled from the university
unruliness	Describes behavior that is difficult to control or manage, often in reference to children or groups of people. It can also imply a lack of discipline. The teacher struggled with the unruliness of her students after recess
chaotic behavior	Used to describe actions that are wild, unpredictable, and lack order, often leading to confusion. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. The children exhibited chaotic behavior during the party, making it difficult for their parents to maintain control

Examples of usage

The students' licentiousness in the classroom made it difficult for the teacher to maintain order.
The political leader's licentiousness in his decisions caused unrest among the population.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'licentiosus,' meaning 'unrestrained' or 'free,' signifying behavior that lacks limits.
In the 16th century, the term started gaining the negative connotation it holds today, reflecting moral looseness.

Literature

Licentiousness is a recurring theme in many works, often used to critique societal norms and moral boundaries.
Writers like John Milton and William Blake explored concepts of licentiousness in their poetry, commenting on human desires and freedoms.

History

During the Renaissance, a period known for its artistic freedom, the concept of licentiousness flourished as society questioned traditional norms.
The French Revolution erupted partly due to feelings of licentiousness among the common folk, who sought liberation from strict societal rules.

Psychology

Some psychologists argue that a degree of licentiousness is natural, as it relates to the expression of repressed desires.
Excessive licentiousness can lead to negative consequences, including issues in relationships and legal troubles.

Pop Culture

Numerous songs and films depict licentiousness as a part of nightlife culture, highlighting the allure and pitfalls of living without boundaries.
Celebrity scandals often bring the concept of licentiousness to public attention, showcasing the conflict between personal freedom and societal expectations.

Translations

Translations of the word "licentiousness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 licenciosidade

🇮🇳 उच्छृंखलता

🇩🇪 Zügellosigkeit

🇮🇩 kelicikan

🇺🇦 розпусність

🇵🇱 rozpusta

🇯🇵 放蕩

🇫🇷 licence

🇪🇸 licenciosidad

🇹🇷 ahlaksızlık

🇰🇷 방탕

🇸🇦 فسق

🇨🇿 nevázanost

🇸🇰 nemravnosť

🇨🇳 放荡

🇸🇮 razuzdanost

🇮🇸 siðleysi

🇰🇿 ұятсыздық

🇬🇪 გარყვნილება

🇦🇿 əxlaqsızlıq

🇲🇽 licenciosidad

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,585, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22582 nuance
22583 dulled
22584 forsook
22585 licentiousness
22586 idiomatic
22587 cuneiform
22588 setter
...