licentiousness
|li-cen-tious-ness|
C1
/laɪˈsɛnʃəsnəs/
(licentious)
lacking moral restraint
Etymology
Etymology Information
'licentious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'licentiosus,' where 'licentia' meant 'freedom' or 'license.'
Historical Evolution
'licentiosus' transformed into the Old French word 'licencieux,' and eventually became the modern English word 'licentious' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'freedom or license,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking moral restraint.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being licentious; lacking legal or moral restraints, especially disregarding sexual restraints.
The licentiousness of the party shocked the conservative guests.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41