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penis

A2
noun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pˈiːnɪs/

US

  • /ˈpinɪs/

Description

This word names the external male sex organ. It is used for urination and also plays a part in sex and reproduction. The term is mainly used in medical, educational, and formal writing, where it sounds clear and neutral.

In everyday life, people may avoid this word because it can feel private or sensitive. Still, it is the standard anatomical term, so a doctor, teacher, or health article may use it directly. In casual speech, some people choose slang instead, but that can sound rude or childish depending on the setting.

Examples

  1. 1

    Medical symptom

    The doctor asked if he had any pain in his penis.

  2. 2

    Hygiene

    Wash the penis gently with warm water.

  3. 3

    Child vocabulary

    Some parents teach children the word penis instead of using a nickname.

    • Caution

      penis is the standard medical word; informal words may sound childish or rude

  4. 4

    Normal variation

    Penises vary in size and shape, and small differences are usually normal.

  5. 5

    Condom use

    A condom is rolled onto the penis before sex.

Forms and spellings

3 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • penisnoun

Forms

  • penisespluralnoun
  • penespluralnoun