Definition

The condition of being involved in sexual relationships between closely related people, which is often considered taboo or illegal.

Example

The novel explores themes of family dynamics and the consequences of incestuousness.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the concept of incestuousness in literature?

Yeah, it can really complicate the relationships between characters.

Right? It often leads to some really intense plots.

Exactly! It makes you question the dynamics between them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incestuousness → It is formed from "incestus" (from Latin, meaning unchaste or impure) and "-ous" (meaning full of) combined with "-ness" (a suffix indicating a state or quality). The word refers to the state of being full of incest or the quality of engaging in incestuous relationships.

Memory Tip

Think of 'unchaste' ('incestus') and remember that 'incestuousness' means the quality of being full of unchaste relationships.

Visually Confused Words