Skip to content

The word for today is…

debauchery (noun):

1: extreme indulgence in bodily pleasures and especially sexual pleasures : behaviour involving sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. that is often considered immoral

2 archaic : seduction from virtue or duty

Source : Merriam -Webster

Etymology : In a number of modern versions of the Bible the word may be found in Ephesians 5:18, as in The New International Version's translation: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit....” The Greek word that is translated here as debauchery may be interpreted in many different ways: the King James Version uses excess, whereas the American Standard Version uses riot. Debauchery always involves behaviour—especially sexual behaviour or behaviour involving alcohol or drugs—that some find morally objectionable. In biblical and spiritual contexts, the word debauchery is deadly serious, but in other situations the word often has a playful connotation, as when a group of friends goes out for a "night of debauchery." Debauchery began to be used in English in the beginning of the 17th century, and is formed from the earlier word debauch. As a verb debauch initially had the meaning of "to lead astray," especially when referring to leading someone away from another person to whom he or she has an allegiance or duty. In its earliest use as a noun debauch was often used to refer to an instance of eating or drinking too much.

If you enjoyed this Good Oil word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends and, especially, your children.

Latest