ejaculation
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪdʒˌækjʊlˈeɪʃən/
US
- /iˌdʒækjuˈleɪʃən/
Description
- release of semen
- sudden cry
- verbal outburst
- forceful expression
Ejaculation most commonly means the release of semen from the male body, usually during sexual arousal or orgasm. It can also mean a sudden, forceful expression, especially a short spoken cry or exclamation. In older literature, an "ejaculation" is often a brief outburst of surprise, emotion, or prayer. It is important to watch the context, because in modern English the word is strongly linked with sexual activity.
The term comes from the Latin eiaculare, meaning "to throw out." It appears often in medical or biological writing, but older or literary uses extend the idea to a quick release of words or feeling. For example, a writer might describe a character's sudden "ejaculation of protest" during an argument.
Ejaculation is most commonly a biological term connected with male sexual reproduction. It refers to the forceful release of semen through the urethra, usually at the peak of sexual stimulation. This process involves a series of muscle contractions in the reproductive system. In medical contexts, it is treated as a normal body function, though some changes in timing, sensation, or control may sometimes need clinical attention.
However, "ejaculation" is not only a biological term. It also has an older and more literary meaning: a sudden, forceful expression of something, often a brief remark, cry, or emotional outburst. This sense comes from the idea of something being sharply "thrown out." In older writing, you may see it used for sudden speech; for instance, a character might "ejaculate a cry of triumph" after finding an important clue.
Metaphorically, the word can describe other intense releases as well. A text might mention an "ejaculation of grief" after a tragedy, meaning a sudden outpouring of sorrow. In older or highly figurative writing, it may also be used for a sudden release of thought, sound, or other strong feeling.
Because of its strong sexual meaning in modern English, it is important to consider your audience before using the word in a non-sexual sense. In formal or sensitive contexts, a more neutral word such as "outburst," "exclamation," or "release" is often clearer. Overall, the word shows how English can carry both a precise biological meaning and an older literary sense about sudden, forceful expression.
Examples
- 1
Sexual health
Stress and some medicines can delay ejaculation.
- 2
Medical discussion
He spoke to his doctor about premature ejaculation.
Meaning
premature ejaculation
ejaculation that happens sooner than wanted during sex
- 3
Old-fashioned use
In the old novel, her sudden cry was described as an ejaculation of fear.
Meaning
old-fashioned: a sudden short cry or exclamation
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ejaculationnoun
Forms
- ejaculationspluralnoun