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libertine

noun

/ˈlɪbətiːn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of libertine

A person who lives a morally or sexually unrestrained lifestyle, often engaging in promiscuous behavior, gambling, or heavy drinking.
"The libertine was known for his wild and hedonistic lifestyle."

Detailed meaning of libertine

A libertine is someone who flouts social norms and conventions, and engages in behaviors that are considered taboo or sinful. The term can be used to describe someone who engages in excessive drinking, drug use, or promiscuity, as well as someone who has a disregard for the rules or expectations of society. While a libertine is often associated with pleasure-seeking and hedonism, the term can also be used to describe someone who values personal freedom and autonomy above all else. Overall, libertine is a term used to describe a person who pursues pleasure and self-indulgence without regard for social norms or conventions.

Example sentences containing libertine

1. The libertine reveled in a life of hedonistic pleasure.
2. He was known as a notorious libertine in the city.
3. The libertine's behavior scandalized the conservative town.
4. Her reputation as a libertine made her a polarizing figure.
5. The libertine's party was legendary for its excesses.
6. He lived the life of a libertine, heedless of consequences.

History and etymology of libertine

The noun 'libertine' has its origins in Latin and traces back to 'libertinus,' which means 'freedman' or 'former slave.' In ancient Rome, a 'libertinus' was someone who had been granted freedom, often through manumission or other means. As such individuals gained their freedom, they sometimes embraced a lifestyle of indulgence and excess, celebrating their newfound liberty. Over time, this association with unrestrained behavior led to the term 'libertinus' evolving into 'libertine,' describing a person who lives a morally or sexually unrestrained lifestyle, often engaging in promiscuous behavior, gambling, or heavy drinking. The etymology of 'libertine' thus reflects the historical connection between freedom and a lack of moral restraint, highlighting the shift from enslaved to unrestrained behavior over the centuries.

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Further usage examples of libertine

1. The libertine's wild escapades were the stuff of legend.
2. She was drawn to the charismatic libertine despite warnings.
3. The libertine's charisma masked a darker side.
4. His libertine lifestyle was a constant source of gossip.
5. The novel explored the complexities of the libertine's character.
6. She found herself entangled with a charming libertine.
7. The libertine's reckless behavior caught up with him.
8. The libertine's philosophy was one of absolute freedom.
9. He defended his libertine lifestyle as a rejection of societal norms.
10. She was labeled a libertine by the conservative members of her community.
11. The novel's protagonist was portrayed as a charming libertine, living without moral constraints.
12. In the 18th century, some intellectuals embraced the ideals of libertinism.
13. The libertine's lavish parties were the talk of the town.
14. He lived the life of a libertine, indulging in every pleasure without guilt.
15. The libertine's behavior scandalized the upper echelons of society.
16. She fell under the spell of a charismatic libertine and left her old life behind.
17. The libertine's philosophy was to live life to the fullest, regardless of societal norms.
18. Some considered him a free-thinking libertine, while others saw him as a menace.
19. The historical figure was both a poet and a libertine, celebrated for his unconventional lifestyle.
20. The libertine's writings explored themes of freedom and sensuality.
21. She found herself drawn to the allure of the libertine's carefree existence.
22. The libertine's mansion was a hub of debauchery and excess.
23. His reputation as a libertine made it difficult for him to find a stable job.
24. Despite his libertine lifestyle, he managed to produce groundbreaking artistic works.
25. She fell in love with a charming libertine and followed him on his adventures.