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lovemaking

C2
Uncommon

Pronunciation

UK

  • /lˈʌvmeɪkɪŋ/

US

  • /ˈləvmeɪkɪŋ/

Meanings

Noun

  1. sexual activity between partners

Beyond the definition

“Lovemaking” is not just the physical act. It is about intimacy, affection, and a deep emotional connection between partners. It is often used as a softer way to say sexual intercourse, but it puts more attention on the loving and gentle side of the experience. It suggests shared pleasure and closeness, not just physical satisfaction.

Context matters. You would not usually use “lovemaking” for casual sex, because the word suggests affection, care, and respect. In romantic novels or poetry, it is often used to show the emotional side of intimacy. It has a tender feeling and suggests openness and shared joy. A story might describe a couple sharing a quiet moment of lovemaking.

Examples

  1. 1

    Romantic tone

    She wanted their lovemaking to feel warm and unhurried.

    • Usage

      lovemaking is softer and more romantic than "sex"

  2. 2

    Relationship strain

    Stress and long work hours had affected their lovemaking.

  3. 3

    Film scene

    The movie includes one brief lovemaking scene.

  4. 4

    Literary language

    The novel describes their lovemaking in quiet, poetic language.

More examples
  1. 5

    Older writing

    In older novels, his lovemaking may mean polite romantic attention, not sex.

    • Usage

      in older writing, lovemaking can mean courtship or romantic attention

See also

Similar

  • sex
  • sexual intercourse
  • making love

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • tender lovemaking
  • passionate lovemaking
  • act of lovemaking

Explore

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • lovemakingnoun