Uninhibited

/ˌʌnɪnˈhɪbɪtɪd/ adjective

Definition

Free from restraints or shy feelings; acting naturally without holding back.

Etymology

From 'un-' (not) plus 'inhibited' (restrained), from Latin 'inhibere' (to hold back). The prefix negates the sense of being held back by social rules or self-consciousness.

Kelly Says

Psychologists discovered that disinhibition—the loss of self-consciousness—happens when people feel anonymous online, explaining why people say things digitally they'd never say in person!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Historically applied judgmentally to women's sexuality and behavior, often weaponized to condemn female autonomy; contrasted with male 'freedom' and framed as impropriety.

Inclusive Usage

Use neutrally to describe openness or candor without gendered moral judgment. Avoid when describing sexuality or behavior in ways that wouldn't apply equally across genders.

Inclusive Alternatives

["forthright","candid","open","unrestrained"]

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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