libido

[li-bee-doh]

noun

plural

libidos 

1. Psychoanalysis.,  all of the instinctual energies and desires that are derived from the id.

2. sexual instinct or sexual drive.

libido

/ lɪˈbɪdɪnəl, lɪˈbiːdəʊ /

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.

Libido is loosely used to mean sexual desire.

Other Word Forms

• libidinal adjective
• libidinally adverb

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

Dr Naseem said creating a trusted space to discuss topics such as vaginal dryness, itching or loss of libido was also crucial.

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After about 50 years of service, some of it fruitful, most of it futile, I decided to put my libido away, once and for all.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

But for some, a loss of libido is common after life-changing events, such as pregnancy and childbirth, according to the NHS.

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In series one, we see Billie go to an abortion clinic dressed as a witch while another episode sees mum Deb tell Josie her "haunting presence" is dampening Deb's boyfriend's libido.

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Some of her symptoms, like problems with her libido, have not fully recovered.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• lust 
• sexual desire www.thesaurus.com
• sexuality