sexual
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɛkʃuːəl/
US
- /ˈsɛkʃuəl/
Description
- Relating to sex
- Connected with reproduction
- Involving physical intimacy
- About attraction or identity
The word "sexual" is used for things connected with sex, reproduction, attraction, and intimate behavior. You may see it in medical phrases like "sexual health," in identity-related phrases like "sexual orientation," or in legal and social phrases like "sexual harassment." It can describe body parts, feelings, relationships, behavior, or parts of a person's identity. Because it often refers to private and sensitive topics, the meaning depends a lot on context.
The word "sexual" has a wide range of meanings, but it usually points to sex, reproduction, attraction, intimacy, or behavior connected with these things. In a basic biological sense, it can describe the body, reproductive organs, or development, as in "sexual development" during puberty. In everyday life, it is also used for attraction, desire, relationships, and intimate acts.
The word appears in many common phrases. "Sexual orientation" describes the pattern of a person's attraction to other people. "Sexual activity" refers to intimate physical acts. "Sexual health" is used in medicine and education when talking about safety, the body, and well-being. The word is also important in serious terms such as "sexual assault" and "sexual harassment," which refer to harmful or unwanted actions.
It can also be used in social and cultural discussions. For example, people may talk about "sexual identity," "sexual rights," or "sexualization." Because the word often touches on personal experience and sensitive topics, it should be used clearly and respectfully. In short, "sexual" is a broad word that can describe biological facts, private feelings, personal identity, intimate behavior, and important social issues.
Examples
- 1
Media rating
The film includes some sexual content, so it is rated for adults.
- 2
Attraction
She felt a strong sexual attraction to him, but she did not want a relationship.
- 3
Private relationship
They kept their sexual relationship private.
- 4
Health advice
The clinic provides advice about sexual health and consent.
- 5
Orientation
He spoke openly about his sexual orientation in the interview.
- 6
Workplace misconduct
The company has strict rules against sexual harassment at work.
Meaning
sexual harassment
unwanted sexual behavior that makes someone feel unsafe or uncomfortable
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sexualnounadjective
Forms
- sexualspluralnounadjective