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Salacious: meaning, definitions and examples

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salacious

 

[ səˈleɪʃəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

descriptive writing

The term 'salacious' refers to something that is characterized by or arousing undue interest in sexual matters. It often describes content that is lewd, lascivious, or sexually provocative. Salacious material, whether in literature, media, or conversation, tends to focus explicitly on lustful or indecent themes. It can also imply a certain moral depravity or lack of restraint regarding sexual desires. As such, it is frequently used in a derogatory sense when critiquing works or discussions that are seen as inappropriate or distasteful.

Synonyms

indecent, lascivious, lewd, libidinous, vulgar.

Examples of usage

  • The novel contained salacious scenes that shocked its readers.
  • Critics condemned the salacious tabloid headlines.
  • The film was banned for its salacious content.
  • Salacious gossip circulated quickly through the office.
  • Her salacious comments made everyone uncomfortable.

Translations

Translations of the word "salacious" in other languages:

🇵🇹 salaz

🇮🇳 अश्लील

🇩🇪 schlüpfrig

🇮🇩 mesum

🇺🇦 похотливий

🇵🇱 lubieżny

🇯🇵 わいせつな

🇫🇷 salace

🇪🇸 salaz

🇹🇷 müstehcen

🇰🇷 음란한

🇸🇦 مبتذل

🇨🇿 sprostý

🇸🇰 neprístojný

🇨🇳 淫荡的

🇸🇮 neprimeren

🇮🇸 ósi

🇰🇿 ұятсыз

🇬🇪 არაკაცური

🇦🇿 əxlaqsız

🇲🇽 lascivo

Etymology

The word 'salacious' originates from the Latin term 'salax', which means 'greedy' or 'lustful'. This Latin term is derived from the verb 'salere', meaning 'to leap' or 'to jump', which hints at a sense of eagerness or excess—qualities often associated with unrestrained sexual desire. The transition into English occurred during the late 15th century, where it began to describe not just a lustful attitude but also literature or art that deals with lust or sexual impropriety. Over the years, 'salacious' has maintained a negative connotation, often used to criticize overtly sexual conduct or content that is deemed inappropriate within given cultural contexts. Its usage reflects societies' norms regarding sexuality and morality, pointing out excesses that are viewed as distasteful or unethical.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,975 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.