English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

nymphomaniac

nihm-foh-MAY-nee-ak
Quiz me More like this

Nymphomaniac (noun) means a dated, often disparaging term for a woman said to have an unusually strong sex drive. Example: “The old psychiatric term "nymphomaniac" is now considered outdated and stigmatizing.”

noun
1
A dated, often disparaging term for a woman said to have an unusually strong sex drive.
"The old psychiatric term "nymphomaniac" is now considered outdated and stigmatizing."

How to use nymphomaniac

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old-fashioned, judgmental label historically used for women assumed to want too much sex.

When to use it

Dated and clinically discredited; modern usage tends to view the term as sexist and best avoided.

Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like nymphomaniac.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Plural
nymphomaniacs
Comparative
more nymphomaniac
Superlative
most nymphomaniac
Test yourself on “nymphomaniac” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The old psychiatric term "_____" is now considered outdated and stigmatizing.

Etymology

From nymphomania plus -ac, ultimately combining Greek nymphe ("bride") with mania ("madness").

Origin: Greek

Related words

Rhymes for nymphomaniac

See all rhymes for nymphomaniac →

Frequently asked questions

What does “nymphomaniac” mean?
The word “nymphomaniac” means a dated, often disparaging term for a woman said to have an unusually strong sex drive. In plain terms, an old-fashioned, judgmental label historically used for women assumed to want too much sex.
How do you pronounce “nymphomaniac”?
“Nymphomaniac” is pronounced nihm-foh-MAY-nee-ak (/ˌnɪm.fəʊˈmeɪ.niˌæk/ in IPA).
How do you use “nymphomaniac” in a sentence?
Here is “nymphomaniac” used in a sentence: “The old psychiatric term "nymphomaniac" is now considered outdated and stigmatizing.”
What part of speech is “nymphomaniac”?
“Nymphomaniac” is a noun.
Where does the word “nymphomaniac” come from?
The word “nymphomaniac” comes from Greek. From nymphomania plus -ac, ultimately combining Greek nymphe ("bride") with mania ("madness").

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial