lusty
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈʌsti/
US
- /ˈləsti/
Description
- Energetic
- Strong and healthy
- Hearty
- Full of life
- Sexually eager
The word "lusty" usually gives the sense of strong, healthy, and full of life. It often describes people, actions, or sounds that feel hearty and energetic. A "lusty sailor" sounds strong and able, a "lusty cheer" is loud and full of spirit, and a "lusty appetite" suggests a big, healthy desire for food.
"Lusty" can also refer to strong sexual desire, especially in older writing. That meaning is real, but it depends on the context. In many cases, the word is simply about physical energy, health, or a bold, lively manner. In modern English, the sexual sense can sound a bit old-fashioned or playful.
"Lusty" is an old, vivid word that usually suggests strength, health, and lively energy. It is often used for someone who seems hearty and vigorous, or for something done with force and enthusiasm. A "lusty cheer" is not just loud; it is full and spirited. A "lusty appetite" suggests strong hunger and healthy enjoyment. In older descriptions, a "lusty young man" would often mean a strong, healthy one.
The word also has a sexual sense. In that use, it describes someone with strong sexual desire or behavior. You will often see this meaning in older literature, where the line between physical vigor and sexual desire is closer than it is in modern everyday English. Because of that history, the word can sometimes carry both ideas at once.
Context matters a great deal. Very often, "lusty" simply means hearty, energetic, or full of life, especially when it describes a shout, laugh, song, appetite, or person. In other cases, especially when it describes desire, looks, or behavior, it points to sexuality. In present-day English, the sexual sense can sound dated, humorous, or literary, while the broader sense of strong and hearty still feels clear in the right context.
Examples
- 1
Baby cry
The baby let out a lusty cry from the next room.
- 2
Appetite
After working in the garden all morning, we came inside with lusty appetites.
- 3
Crowd reaction
The crowd gave a lusty cheer when the band walked onstage.
- 4
Singing
His lusty singing carried all the way to the back of the hall.
- 5
Older literary use
The old novel is full of lusty sailors, wild parties, and bad decisions.
Usage
In older or literary writing, lusty can suggest strong sexual desire or love of pleasure.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- lustyadjective