Concubitous

/kənˈkjuːbɪtəs/ adjective

Definition

Of, relating to, or involving cohabitation or sexual intercourse outside of marriage.

Etymology

From Late Latin 'concubitus' (lying together), formed with the adjective suffix '-ous.' The root combines 'con-' (with) and 'cubare' (to lie down), giving the word its literal meaning of 'lying together.'

Kelly Says

The Latin verb 'cubare' (to lie down) also gives us 'incubate,' literally meaning to sit on or lie upon—both words are about physical proximity and developing something over time through that closeness!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Adjective marking concubinage practice; gendered language normalizing informal female-subordinate unions in legal/social codes.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid. Use 'cohabitational' or 'informal domestic' instead.

Inclusive Alternatives

["cohabitational","informal domestic","non-marital partnership"]

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.