Sexual
ˈsɛkʃuəl
Definitions
3 meaningsRelating to or characteristic of sex or the sexes.
ˈsɛkʃuəl
Relating to or involving the physical activity of sex.
Sexual intercourse is a fundamental aspect of human life.
💡 Simply: When something is sexual, it's connected to the act of sex or things that are related to sex, like attraction or biology. For example, 'sexual reproduction' means creating babies using sex, just like how we learn about it in health class.
👶 For kids: About boys and girls and how they are different.
More Examples
The magazine contained articles on sexual health.
Scientists are studying sexual dimorphism in the animal kingdom.
How It's Used
"Sexual reproduction is the process of creating offspring from two parents."
"The doctor discussed sexual health concerns with the patient."
Of or relating to the emotions or physical acts of sexual behavior.
ˈsɛkʃuəl
Characterized by or arousing sexual feelings or desires.
The movie contained some sexual content.
💡 Simply: Something is 'sexual' if it involves feelings of attraction or the desire to be intimate with another person. This could be a movie scene, a feeling, or a discussion. It can be like when you get butterflies when you're interested in someone, as if you're thinking about a romantic relationship.
👶 For kids: When you feel interested in someone or something that has to do with a grown-up relationship.
More Examples
He felt a sexual attraction to her.
The artist portrayed a sexual fantasy in her painting.
How It's Used
"She experienced sexual attraction to her partner."
"The novel included scenes with strong sexual undertones."
Concerning or pertaining to someone's sexual desires or sexual identity.
ˈsɛkʃuəl
Of or relating to the sex life or orientation of a person.
Her sexual orientation is heterosexual.
💡 Simply: This is when we talk about someone's gender (male, female or non-binary) or attractions. It can be how you feel or act towards another person and this term is about the things you do or feel.
👶 For kids: About if you like boys, girls, or both.
More Examples
The survey addressed sexual behavior and attitudes.
The organization promotes sexual health awareness.
How It's Used
"She identifies with the term 'homosexual' to describe her sexual orientation."
"The law addressed issues of sexual harassment in the workplace."
Idioms & expressions
sexual harassment
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
"The company has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment."
sexual assault
Any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient.
"Sexual assault is a serious crime."
sexual orientation
A person's emotional and sexual attraction to another person.
"The debate focused on discrimination based on sexual orientation."
From Latin *sexualis*, derived from *sexus* meaning 'sex, gender'. It entered English in the late 17th century, initially related to the biological aspects of sex but its usage expanded over time.
The word's usage initially focused on biological aspects, but the concept expanded in the 20th century to include psychological, social, and cultural dimensions.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'sex' and add '-ual' to indicate something related to sex.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: sexus