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Thai

ราคะ

Pronunciation

raakhá

ราคะ

raakhá

lust

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  1. 1 lust、sexual desire、sexual passion

This is a formal word for lust or strong desire, especially sexual desire. In Buddhist contexts, it also refers to desire or attachment as a mental defilement.

1

lust、sexual desire、sexual passion

Noun⭐️2 Not often used Loanword

A formal term for lust or sexual desire, focusing on physical desire rather than romantic feelings.

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Learning notes

Explanation

ราคะ is a formal Pali/Sanskrit-derived word. It does not mean ordinary wanting or liking. Its core sense is a powerful desire that takes hold of the mind, most commonly lust. In Buddhist language, it is treated as a mental defilement and is often mentioned together with โทสะ “anger” and โมหะ “delusion.”

Usage

It is used in Buddhist teaching, moral discussion, literary description, psychological description, and analytical or critical talk about sexual desire. It is not common in casual everyday conversation.

Caution

Do not use it for liking or loving someone romantically. When applied to a person, it strongly suggests lust or being driven by sexual desire, so it can sound offensive or uncomfortable.

Differences from similar words

1 lust synonyms

  • กำหนัด refers more directly to sexual arousal. ราคะ is more formal and describes lust or sexual desire as a powerful drive.

  • ตัณหา means craving or intense desire in a broader sense, not necessarily sexual. ราคะ more often points to lust or desire in a Buddhist or moral context.

Component words

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