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concupiscence

noun
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con·​cu·​pis·​cence | \ kän-ˈkyü-pə-sən(t)s How to pronounce concupiscence (audio) , kən- \

Definition of concupiscence

: strong desire especially : sexual desire
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Other Words from concupiscence

concupiscent \ kän-​ˈkyü-​pə-​sənt How to pronounce concupiscence (audio) , kən-​ \ adjective

Examples of concupiscence in a Sentence

the Puritans did not condemn concupiscence but rather the satisfaction of it in ways they deemed illicit
Recent Examples on the Web The depictions are disturbingly romantic: seminude invaders among smoldering monuments, preening with bloodlust and concupiscence. — Cullen Murphy, The Atlantic, "The Man Who Sacked Rome," 9 June 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'concupiscence.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of concupiscence

14th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for concupiscence

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin concupiscentia, from Latin concupiscent-, concupiscens, present participle of concupiscere to desire ardently, from com- + cupere to desire

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Time Traveler for concupiscence

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The first known use of concupiscence was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Concupiscence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/concupiscence. Accessed 15 Apr. 2021.

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