Concupiscences

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A strong desire or lust, often for sexual gratification or sensual pleasures
2. An intense craving or yearning for something, particularly of an erotic nature
3. The state of having passionate thoughts or inclinations, especially towards physical desires or appetites

Etymology: "Concupiscences" is simply the plural of "concupiscence," so the history belongs to the singular. That noun comes from Latin "concupiscentia," a formation built on the verb "concupiscere," meaning to desire strongly or eagerly, or to covet. The verb itself is a compound: the prefix "con-" intensifies the sense, and "cupere" (to desire) supplies the core meaning, the same root behind the Latin "cupiditas," the source of English "cupidity." The English noun keeps the Latin sense of intense longing. In the Latin verb, "concupiscere" could describe desire for anything worth wanting, but the word came to be used especially for appetite, and in English it has retained that narrower association with strong sensual craving.