What does lasciviousness mean?
Lasciviousness is a formal noun meaning lewdness, lustfulness, or an unrestrained interest in sexual pleasure. It can describe a person's behavior, a cultural or artistic work, or the general character of something judged to be excessively sensual. The term is usually negative and conveys moral disapproval rather than a neutral description of sexual behavior. In historical and literary criticism, it may be applied to paintings, novels, plays, costumes, dances, or other forms of expression perceived as indecent or provocative. Because its connotation is strongly critical, it is more appropriate in formal discussion than in ordinary conversation, where less judgmental wording may be preferred. Related words include “lascivious,” an adjective, and “lasciviously,” an adverb.
nounThe quality or state of being lustful, lewd, or excessively concerned with sexual pleasure. It can also refer to behavior marked by an unrestrained or indecent interest in sexual matters.
- Lustfulness or lewdness, especially as a quality of conduct, expression, or artistic material.
"The novel's reputation for lasciviousness prompted the author to revise several passages."
"The court criticized the painting for its lasciviousness."
"She spoke sternly about the lasciviousness spreading through the entertainment industry."
The plural is rare; the singular is normally used in an abstract or uncountable sense.
"The essays examined the lasciviousnesses of the ancient world."
Lasciviousness has long been used to describe art, literature, and behavior perceived as openly or excessively sensual.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lasciviousness come from?
The word entered English in the early 17th century, developed from “lascivious,” which comes from Latin “lasciviosus,” meaning lustful or wanton. The Latin adjective is related to “lascivia,” an abstract noun meaning wantonness or lasciviousness. The English noun was formed by adding the suffix “-ness” to the adjective, preserving the same sense of unrestrained sexual desire or lewd conduct.
Related word forms
How lasciviousness is actually used
The word is formal and strongly disapproving in tone. It is often used to characterize conduct, artistic works, or cultural attitudes as morally improper because of their sexual emphasis.