What does lascivious mean?
Lascivious describes conduct, expressions, or attitudes marked by strong and often excessive sexual desire. The word commonly appears in criticism of behavior that is lewd, wanton, or morally improper, such as suggestive remarks, openly sexual displays, or descriptions intended to arouse. It can be applied to people, but it frequently modifies particular actions or features: a lascivious glance, remark, or smile. Although related to lewd, lascivious often suggests a more intense or conspicuous quality and carries a strongly negative, judgmental tone. In formal and literary contexts, it can describe writing characterized by overt sensuality or sexual indulgence. The word is understood in both British and American English and is chiefly formal. Because of its disapproval, it is especially useful when discussing conduct or representations perceived as excessive, provocative, or indecent.
adjectiveLascivious means showing or expressing strong sexual desire, often in a lewd or excessive way. It can also describe someone who is lustful or inclined to sexual indulgence.
- Exhibiting or expressing strong sexual desire, especially in a lewd, wanton, or excessive manner.
"She cast a lascivious glance across the crowded room."
"The novel was criticized for its lascivious descriptions of the characters' relationships."
"He was known for his lascivious behavior at parties, unsettling many of the guests."
Lascivious is more than a synonym for rude: it points to a conspicuous, often unsettling display of sexual desire.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lascivious come from?
Lascivious entered English in the early 17th century from the Latin lascivus, meaning playful, wanton, or lustful. The English word developed the sense of being characterized by sexual desire or lewd behavior. Related forms include the Latin lascivia, meaning wantonness or lust, and the English verb lasciviate, meaning to behave wantonly.
Related word forms
How lascivious is actually used
Lascivious is formal and strongly disapproving. It is commonly used for behavior, attitudes, expressions, or writing that suggest conspicuous or excessive sexual desire, and usually carries a negative moral judgment.
Easily confused with lascivious
Lewd generally focuses on sexual impropriety or obscenity, whereas lascivious more often describes intense sexual desire or a wanton manner.