libidinal

[ li-bid-n-l ]

adjective

1. Psychoanalysis. relating to the libido, all of the instinctual energies and desires derived from the id, an unconscious part of the psyche:

   This task of “behaving oneself” is always done through control of the libidinal excesses.

   A person preoccupied with excessive libidinal energy cannot shift focus from their own pressing needs to responsibilities involving other people.

2. of or relating to the sexual instinct or drive:

   Individuals may marry for many reasons, including legal, social, libidinal, emotional, financial, and religious considerations.

Other Words From

• li·bid·i·nal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of libidinal¹

First recorded in 1922; from Latin libīdin- (stem of libīdo libido ( def ) ) + -al ¹( def )

Example Sentences

Scabrous and willfully obscene, the novel is often read as an exemplar of Roth’s late-career efflorescence, a distillation of his preoccupations, libidinal and otherwise.

From New York Times

One wonders if Hollywood still have the kinds of Greek gods whose libidinal histories shaped whole cultures, or if we just have action figures with smooth, nothing nether regions now.

From Salon

It’s funny, thought-provoking, gross, libidinal, and infuriating, all at once.

From Los Angeles Times

“Last Dance” is about the relationship between artist and patron, and also about something that can’t be reduced to libidinal or economic transactions.

From New York Times

A sunny folk-influenced quartet whose fresh-faced image and effervescent pop songs stood in marked contrast to the libidinal frenzy of 1960s rock, the Seekers sold an estimated 50 million singles and albums worldwide.

From New York Times