Promiscuous
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Engaging in casual or indiscriminate sexual activity with multiple partners.
- Lacking discrimination in choosing relationships, often referring to a lack of selectivity or consistency.
- Characterized by a wide range of things or elements, not limited to a particular set or category.
History and Origin
The word “promiscuous” comes from the Latin promiscuus, meaning “mixed” or “common,” derived from pro (meaning “for”) and miscere (meaning “to mix”). Initially, it was used to describe things that were mixed or not organized. Over time, it began to be associated with sexual behavior and, later, with indiscriminate behavior in general.
Detailed Explanation
“Promiscuous” typically refers to behavior that lacks selectivity, particularly in the context of sexual activity, where it suggests having multiple sexual partners without forming committed or exclusive relationships. In a broader sense, it can describe actions or preferences that are unselective or random, often leading to the idea of not distinguishing between options or choices. While the term is often associated with sexual behavior, it can also refer to indiscriminate actions or patterns in other areas of life, such as mixing different things without care or order.
Example Sentences
- The tabloid was full of stories about his promiscuous lifestyle.
- She was criticized for her promiscuous behavior during her teenage years.
- The movie portrays the main character as having a promiscuous attitude toward relationships.
- The company adopted a promiscuous hiring policy, accepting candidates from a variety of backgrounds.
- His promiscuous approach to friendships made it difficult for him to form lasting connections.
- Promiscuous behavior can lead to health risks and emotional consequences.
- The promiscuous mixing of different food flavors created a unique culinary experience.
- He was known for his promiscuous attitude toward changing jobs frequently.
- The book discusses the societal views on promiscuous relationships and their implications.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Indiscriminate – Lacking careful selection or judgment, especially regarding relationships or actions.
- Casual – Involving a relaxed or uncommitted approach, particularly in relationships.
- Loose – Referring to behavior that is not confined by boundaries or norms, often in a sexual context.
- Unselective – Not choosing carefully or making distinctions between options or partners.
- Free-spirited – Describing someone who is not bound by traditional rules, often with an emphasis on uncommitted relationships.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Excessive – Going beyond the normal limits, often used to describe behavior that is too frequent or unrestrained.
- Reckless – Acting without careful thought or concern, often associated with promiscuous behavior.
- Impulsive – Acting on sudden desires or urges, often leading to indiscriminate actions.
- Unrestrained – Lacking boundaries or control, similar to promiscuous behavior.
- Carefree – Being unconcerned with consequences, often linked to casual or promiscuous behavior.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Hedonistic – Pursuing pleasure, often associated with promiscuous or indulgent behavior.
- Licentious – Behavior that is morally unrestrained, often linked to promiscuity.
- Dissolute – Living a lifestyle that lacks moral restraint, often including promiscuous actions.
- Wild – Describes behavior that is untamed or unrestrained, often in a sexual context.
- Fickleness – Changing frequently, often referring to relationships or attitudes, akin to promiscuous patterns.
Antonyms
- Chaste
- Monogamous
- Committed
- Select
- Faithful