libido

noun

li·​bi·​do lə-ˈbē-(ˌ)dō 

also

ˈli-bə-ˌdō 

or

lə-ˈbī-(ˌ)dō 

plural libidos

1

: instinctual psychic energy that in psychoanalytic theory is derived from primitive biological urges (as for sexual pleasure or self-preservation) and that is expressed in conscious activity

2

: sexual drive

The drug was used to increase libido.

Did you know?

The Latin word libido, meaning "desire, lust", was borrowed by Sigmund Freud as the name for a concept in his own theories. At first he defined libido to mean the instinctual energy associated with the sex drive. Later he broadened the word's meaning and began using it to mean the mental energy behind purposeful human activity of any kind; in other words, the libido (for which Freud also used the term eros, a Greek word meaning "sexual love") came to be regarded as the life instinct, which included sex along with all the other impulses we rely on to keep us alive. But those of us who aren't psychologists use the word simply as a synonym for "sex drive".

Examples of libido in a Sentence

Lack of libido may be a sign of depression.

Recent Examples on the Web

Testosterone, a hormone primarily associated with male characteristics, plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions for both men and women, including muscle growth, bone density, libido, and mood regulation. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 25 June 2023

These can include lower libido and inability to achieve orgasm. —Joe and Teresa Graedon, oregonlive, 28 Aug. 2023

That is a conversation that threatens their vitality, their masculinity, their libido, their place in this world. —David Oliver, USA TODAY, 7 Aug. 2023

However, left out of all the online chatter was the impact on our vaginas and reproduction due to stress, which can lead to several physical issues, such as a lack of libido and an increase in yeast infections and UTIs. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 27 July 2023

My wife was complaining about my low libido, not to mention general grumpiness. —Joe and Teresa Graedon, oregonlive, 7 Aug. 2023

Additionally, this ingredient has been studied extensively for its potential to boost libido and erectile function. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 19 June 2023

In men, high levels of prolactin commonly cause erectile dysfunction and low libido. —Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 1 Aug. 2023

This blend of natural botanicals helps reduce water retention and body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and improve libido. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 26 June 2023

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Word History

Etymology

New Latin libidin-, libido, from Latin, desire, lust, from libēre to please — more at love

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

libido

noun

li·​bi·​do

lə-ˈbēd-(ˌ)ō also ˈlib-ə-ˌdō or lə-ˈbī-(ˌ)dō

plural libidos

1

: instinctual psychic energy that in psychoanalytic theory is derived from primitive biological urges (as for sexual pleasure or self-preservation) and that is expressed in conscious activity

2

: sexual drive