licentious
UK: laɪˈsenʃəs | US: laɪˈsenʃəs
adj. lacking moral discipline or restraint, especially in sexual conduct
adj. disregarding accepted rules or conventions
licentious = licen<permission> + tious<adjective suffix>
- licen (from Latin licentia, meaning "freedom, license, unrestrained liberty")
- tious (adjective-forming suffix indicating "full of" or "characterized by")
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin licentia ("freedom, license"), derived from licere ("to be permitted"). Over time, licentious evolved in English (early 17th century) to emphasize excessive freedom—particularly in behavior violating social norms. The suffix -tious amplifies the sense of being "characterized by" such unchecked liberty, often with negative connotations.
The novel was criticized for its licentious portrayal of aristocratic life.
His licentious behavior scandalized the conservative community.
The play’s licentious dialogue challenged societal taboos.
She rejected the licentious lifestyle promoted by certain celebrities.
The king’s licentious court became a symbol of moral decay.