Sexually

/ˈsɛkʃuəli/

adverbBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

1

Relating to or involving sex or sexual activity.

/ˈsɛkʃuəli/

adverbneutralBeginner
General

In a way that relates to sex or sexual activity.

The film contains scenes that are sexually suggestive.

💡 Simply: This word means something is happening that has to do with sex. Like, if someone talks about a movie that's sexually suggestive, they're talking about parts of the movie that focus on sex or attraction.

👶 For kids: When something is done in a way that has to do with boys and girls being close to each other.

More Examples

2

She was sexually harassed at work.

3

The couple explored their relationship sexually.

How It's Used

Psychology

"The therapist discussed sexually transmitted infections with the patient."

Law

"The evidence suggested the assault was sexually motivated."

Sociology

"The study explores sexually explicit content online."

Idioms & expressions

sexually transmitted infection (STI)

An infection that is spread through sexual contact.

"Practicing safe sex can help prevent sexually transmitted infections."

sexually active

Engaged in or prone to sexual activity.

"Many health programs target sexually active teens."

From the Latin word "sexus" meaning "sex," combined with the suffix "-ally" indicating manner or way.

The term "sexually" has been used in English since the early 20th century, evolving alongside changing societal views on sex and sexuality. Initially, it focused primarily on procreation, but its meaning broadened to include broader aspects of sexual behavior and relationships.

Memory tip

Think of "sex" + "-ually" – it's about the manner or way in which something involves sex.

sexullysexuly

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written