libido

[ li-bee-doh ]

noun

, plural li·bi·dos.

1. Psychoanalysis. all of the instinctual energies and desires that are derived from the id.
2. sexual instinct or sexual drive.

libido

/ lɪˈbiːdəʊ; lɪˈbɪdɪnəl /

noun

1. psychoanal psychic energy emanating from the id
2. sexual urge or desire

libido

1. In Freudian psychology, the energy associated with the desires that come from the id .

Notes

Libido is loosely used to mean sexual desire.

Derived Forms

• liˈbidinally, adverb
• libidinal, adjective

Other Words From

• li·bid·i·nal [li-, bid, -n-l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of libido¹

First recorded in 1890–95; from Latin libīdō “desire, willfulness, lust,” akin to libēre “to be pleasing”

Word History and Origins

Origin of libido¹

C20 (in psychoanalysis): from Latin: desire

Example Sentences

Yet researchers are fiercely divided over the question of just how many women lack libido and how best to help them.

From Popular-Science

Lost in the outrage over sexism was the reality that flibanserin, a failed antidepressant that causes drowsiness, also isn’t a great libido drug.

From Popular-Science

It also turns off higher cognitive thought, digestion, and libido.

From Nautilus

Along with the association between mental health and libido, there is, as he describes it, a rise in the culture of risk avoidance — of “safetism.”

From Ozy

Add the depression that’s collecting around what seems to be a world out of control, and it seems pretty natural that your libido has taken a hit.

From Ozy

Libido is what earlier psychologists called "will" or "tendency."

From Project Gutenberg

Libido can perhaps be described as "effect," or "capacity for effect."

From Project Gutenberg

Libido is intended to be an energising expression for psychological values.

From Project Gutenberg

Libido effrenata effrenatam appetentiam efficit—Unbridled gratification produces unbridled desire.

From Project Gutenberg

On the opposite page Pudicitia—in a very spirited attitude—is driving her spear through the throat of Libido.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• lust
• sexual desire
• sexuality