'Cacoethes' definitions:

Definition of 'cacoethes'

From: WordNet
noun
An irrational but irresistible motive for a belief or action [syn: mania, passion, cacoethes]

Definition of 'Cacoethes'

From: GCIDE
  • Cacoethes \Cac`o*["e]"thes\, n. [L., fr. Gr. ???????? of ill habits, ?? ???????? an ill habit; kako`s bad + ? habit]
  • 1. A bad custom or habit; an insatiable desire; as, caco["e]thes scribendi, "The itch for writing". --Addison. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Med.) A bad quality or disposition in a disease; an incurable ulcer. [1913 Webster]