Licentious

Adjective

Definition: Promiscuous and unprincipled in sexual matters.

Synonyms: Wanton, Immoral, Debauched

Antonyms: Virtuous, Chaste, Modest

Examples:

The licentious behavior of the characters in the novel shocked many readers.
The party got wild and licentious as the night went on.

Mnemonics:

"Licentious" sounds like "lewd and senseless."

Etymology:

Origin:

From Middle English "licenciōus," from Old French "licencieux," from Latin "licentiōsus," from "licentia" meaning "freedom, license."

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the 14th century to describe someone or something that is immoral or unrestrained in sexual matters.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Lead a licentious life"

Explanation:

Refers to living a promiscuous and morally unrestrained lifestyle.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "licentious" with "loose."

Explanation:

While both words can refer to immoral behavior, "licentious" specifically refers to a lack of moral principles in sexual matters, whereas "loose" has a broader meaning and can refer to behavior that lacks restraint in general.