lasciviousness

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ləsˈsɪv.i.əs.nəs/

KK: /læsˈsɪv.i.əs.nəs/

noun

Definition

The quality of being sexually lustful or lewd; an excessive desire for sexual pleasure.

Example

The novel explores themes of love and lasciviousness in a provocative manner.

Conversation

Did you see that movie everyone's talking about?

Yeah, it was filled with so much lasciviousness that I couldn't believe it.

I know, right? It felt over the top at times.

Totally! I prefer stories with a bit more depth.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

lewdness

licentiousness

salaciousness

Antonyms

modesty

chastity

purity

Root Explanation

Lasciviousness → It is formed from "lascivus" (from Latin, meaning wanton or lewd) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "lasciviousness" refers to the state of being lewd or sexually unrestrained.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word 'lascivus' which means wanton or lewd, and remember that 'lasciviousness' describes the quality of being lewd.

Visually Confused Words

lusciousness

solaciousness