promiscuous Meaning and Definition
Promiscuous
Pronunciation
/prəˈmɪskjuəs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Having or characterized by a tendency to engage in sexual relationships with multiple partners or a lack of restraint in one’s sexual behavior.
Etymology
From Latin “promiscuus”, meaning “mixed or mingled”, derived from “promixtus”, past participle of “promiscere”, to mix or mingle.
Usage Notes
Careful not to confuse with “promiscuity”, the state of being promiscuous.
Cultural References
- “Promiscuous” is the title track of Keri Hilson’s 2009 album.
- In his 2014 album “Blood Orange”, Dev Hynes uses the word in the song “You’re Not Good Enough.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Promiscuous behavior”
- “Sexual promiscuity”
Related Words or Phrases
- Promiscuity
- Sexuality
- Casual sex
Collocations
- Promiscuous behavior
- Promiscuous relationships
Frequency of Use
Commonly used in various contexts, including social and erotic services, research on sexual behavior, and discussions about sexuality.
Common Misspellings
- Promicuous
- Promisicus