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Incest - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Incest refers to sexual relations or marriage between closely related individuals, such as siblings or parents and children, which is prohibited by law and social norms in most societies.

incest

/ˈɪnˌsɛst/ /ˈɪnsɛst/

Definition:

Sexual relations between closely related individuals, often illegal or taboo.

Synonyms:

consanguinity, inbreeding, kinship sex

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

chastity, abstinence

Common Collocations:

incest taboo, commit incest, accused of incest

Derivatives:

incestuous, incestuously

Usage Tips:

Use "incest" to describe prohibited sexual relationships within families; avoid casual usage due to sensitivity.

Common Phrases:

family taboo, forbidden love, blood relation sin

Etymology:

From Latin *incestus*, meaning "unchaste" or "impure," combining *in-* (not) and *castus* (pure).

Examples:

  • 1. The law strictly prohibits incest in most societies.
  • 2. She wrote a novel exploring the psychological effects of incest.
  • 3. Incest is considered a serious crime in many cultures worldwide.
  • 4. The documentary examined historical cases of royal family incest.

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