lustful

Lustful is an adjective used to describe someone who exhibits a strong or excessive sexual desire or arousal. The term can also be used more broadly to describe intense craving in non-sexual contexts, but in modern common usage it most often refers to sexual appetite or behavior perceived as uncontrolled. Etymology: the word derives from Old English lust, meaning desire or pleasure, with the adjectival suffix -ful; over time its sense narrowed to refer chiefly to sexual desire, while retaining the notion of intensity or excess.

In literature, religion, and everyday speech, 'lustful' often carries a moral or evaluative tone, implying temptations that may be inappropriate or harmful if acted upon. It can describe a person, an impulse, or a behavior that is driven by strong sexual longing, sometimes bypassing consent or restraint. The term is frequently contrasted with virtues such as chastity, temperance, or discretion.

Psychologically, sexual desire is a normal biological drive influenced by hormones, neurochemistry, and personal history. Desire is a normal biological drive influenced by hormones, neurochemistry, and personal history. Describing 'lustful' behavior typically reflects the intensity or context of arousal, rather than a neutral clinical judgment. When desire is excessive, compulsive, or coercive, professionals may discuss concepts such as hypersexuality or sexual addiction, always within a nonjudgmental framework that emphasizes consent and safety.

Culturally, attitudes toward lustful expressions vary widely. Some traditions stigmatize or regulate sexual expression, while others openly acknowledge and regulate sexual behavior through norms and laws. Across contexts, 'lustful' remains a descriptive term whose acceptability depends on intent, consent, and social norms.