libido

[li-bee-doh]

noun

plural

libidos 

1. Psychoanalysis.,  all of the instinctual energies and desires that are derived from the id.

2. sexual instinct or sexual drive.

libido

/ lɪˈbɪdɪnəl, lɪˈbiːdəʊ /

noun

1. psychoanal psychic energy emanating from the id

2. sexual urge or desire

libido

1. In Freudian psychology, the energy associated with the desires that come from the id.

Libido is loosely used to mean sexual desire.

Other Word Forms

• libidinal adjective
• libidinally adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of libido¹

First recorded in 1890–95; from Latin libīdō “desire, willfulness, lust,” akin to libēre “to be pleasing”

Word History and Origins

Origin of libido¹

C20 (in psychoanalysis): from Latin: desire

Example Sentences

In series one, we see Billie go to an abortion clinic dressed as a witch while another episode sees mum Deb tell Josie her "haunting presence" is dampening Deb's boyfriend's libido.

From BBC

Some of her symptoms, like problems with her libido, have not fully recovered.

From Salon

In recent years, the drugs have also been criticized for potential side effects, such as loss of libido and dizziness, while some patients experience withdrawal effects when they stop taking them.

From Salon

The whole point of vacation is to relax and bring play into our lives, Reeves reminded me, noting that “libido thrives” in exactly those situations.

From Los Angeles Times

Heavy bleeding, hair loss, weight gain, painful sex and low libido are some of the most common symptoms that people don’t like to talk about.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• lust 
• sexual desire www.thesaurus.com
• sexuality