libidinous

USAGE SUMMARY

"libidinous" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is an adjective that means having or displaying strong sexual desire. It can be used in a variety of contexts. An example sentence might be: "The libidinous couple was unable to control their passionate urges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The late, libidinous, Alan Clarke's Diaries tell you more than any academic study about the reality of politics, about the relationship between politicians and civil servants, the way individuals exploit power, and the way the apparently powerful strive to achieve within the structures and constraints in which they operate.

The Guardian

The latter half of the 17th century saw the start of a backlash against extreme Puritanism, particularly among the upper classes who observed the louche goings on at court, led by the libidinous Charles II.

The Economist

His chief ally, Umberto Bossi, leader of the Northern League, has said bluntly that he does not think the coalition can survive until 2013.Until now, Mr Berlusconi's most useful prop has been the Roman Catholic church, which seemed to have decided that even a libidinous TV mogul was better than a left-wing government.

The Economist

The bare-bones version is simply an indemnity for the cost of a challenge to the prenup; elaborate policies will include other expenses such as mediation and, if that fails, the cost of a contested divorce.Unlike those for car insurance, the premiums are flat rates: the libidinous will pay the same as the uxorious.

The Economist

The other side has, in turn, accused Mr Berlusconi's lot of being corrupt, criminal and libidinous.

The Economist

Perhaps it would be better to stick to more psychologically robust and less libidinous space explorers: robots.

The Economist

The board, reportedly weary of allegations about Mr Charney's libidinous behaviour, removed him as chief executive last month.

The Economist

As the reader reaches the economic and social decline of the English aristocracy after the death of Queen Victoria, it helps to be told that the libidinous King Edward VII was known as "Edward the Caresser" by his disrespectful subjects.

The Economist

It not only makes more of it than any other country; it also produces more in-your-face culture loud mouthed, libidinous and impossible to ignore.

The Economist

He does not spare Mr Clinton's sexual recklessness and he is even more severe about the "libidinous crudeness" of his departing lavishness with pardons as "inappropriate", to use Mr Clinton's own weasel word, as his relationship with an adolescent intern.

The Economist

He saw a libidinous bull eating it once, and decided that the luckless leaf was the cause of its excessive sex drive.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "libidinous" to describe characters or situations with a strong focus on sexual desire, especially when a more formal or literary tone is desired. It's a nuanced term, so ensure the context aligns with its slightly elevated register.

Common error

Avoid using "libidinous" when a simpler, more direct word like "lustful" or "sexual" would suffice. "Libidinous" carries a more specific connotation of overt or unrestrained sexual desire, and using it inappropriately can sound pretentious or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "libidinous" is as an adjective, modifying a noun to describe someone or something characterized by strong sexual desire. Ludwig examples show it describing people (e.g., "libidinous TV mogul") or behaviors (e.g., "libidinous habits").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "libidinous" is a grammatically correct adjective that describes having or displaying strong sexual desire. According to Ludwig, the word is valid and usable in written English. It frequently appears in news, media and encyclopedia sources. While synonyms such as "lustful" and "lascivious" exist, "libidinous" carries a slightly more formal and nuanced tone. When using "libidinous", ensure that it aligns with the desired level of formality and accurately reflects the intensity of sexual desire you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lascivious

Implies a more openly and overtly sexual nature; can be considered more intense than "libidinous".

Lustful

Directly expresses strong sexual desire or craving, similar to "libidinous" but more straightforward.

Lewd

Suggests a crude or offensive sexuality, implying a lack of refinement, more negative connotation compared to "libidinous".

Wanton

Indicates unrestrained or excessive sexual behavior, often with a sense of recklessness, which is more extreme than "libidinous".

Salacious

Suggests an appeal to sexual interest, often in a scandalous or titillating way, implying a focus on generating excitement, similar to but slightly more provocative than "libidinous".

Racy

Implies a slightly suggestive or risqué quality, less direct than "libidinous" but still related to sexual themes.

Carnal

Focuses on the physical, sensual aspects of sexuality, more grounded in bodily desires compared to the broader "libidinous".

Licentious

Suggests a disregard for accepted rules and standards of sexual behavior, implying moral laxity, carrying stronger judgement than "libidinous".

Prurient

Indicates an excessive interest in sexual matters, particularly those of a scandalous nature, often considered unhealthy or distasteful, more negative spin than "libidinous".

Randy

A more informal term for sexually aroused or eager, carrying a colloquial tone compared to the more formal "libidinous".

FAQs

How can I use "libidinous" in a sentence?

You can use "libidinous" to describe someone displaying overt sexual desire, as in, "The "libidinous character" was known for their many affairs".

What are some synonyms for "libidinous"?

Alternatives for "libidinous" include "lascivious", "lustful", and "lewd", each carrying slightly different connotations regarding the intensity and openness of the expressed sexual desire.

Is "libidinous" a formal word?

Yes, "libidinous" is generally considered a more formal word compared to simpler terms like "horny" or "randy". It's suitable for literary or academic contexts where a nuanced expression of sexual desire is needed.

What's the difference between "libidinous" and "licentious"?

"Libidinous" describes having or showing strong sexual desires, while "licentious" implies a disregard for rules or moral constraints in one's sexual behavior. "Licentious" carries a stronger negative connotation.