Definition

The quality or state of being sexually inappropriate or offensive.

Example

The film was criticized for its lewdness and explicit content.

Conversation

Did you see that movie last night?

Yeah, it was surprisingly good!

I wasn't expecting so much lewdness in it, though.

Right? It definitely caught me off guard.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lewdness → It is formed from "lewd" (from Old English *lewd*, meaning unlearned or ignorant) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "lewdness" refers to the state of being lewd, which has come to mean indecent or sexually unrestrained behavior.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lewd' meaning unlearned or ignorant, and remember that 'lewdness' refers to the state of being indecent or sexually unrestrained.

Visually Confused Words