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sexy

B2
Common

Pronunciation

UK

  • /sˈɛksi/

US

  • /ˈsɛksi/

Meanings

Adjective

  1. (informal)sexually attractive or arousing

  2. exciting, stylish, or especially appealing

Beyond the definition

The word "sexy" usually describes someone or something that feels strongly attractive in a sexual way. In everyday English, though, people also use it more loosely for things that seem stylish, exciting, modern, or especially appealing. Someone might call a person "sexy," but they might also use it for a car, a dress, a phone, or even an idea that feels bold and attractive.

Because the word is tied to physical attraction, its meaning depends a lot on context. It can sound playful, flattering, or confident in the right situation, especially in casual speech or between romantic partners. But in formal settings, especially at work, it can sound too personal or inappropriate.

Examples

  1. 1

    Clothing

    She felt sexy in her new red dress.

  2. 2

    Voice

    He lowered his voice and tried to sound sexy.

  3. 3

    Brand image

    The perfume brand built its image around a sexy, glamorous style.

  4. 4

    Web design

    The company wants a website that looks modern and sexy.

More examples
  1. 5

    Career field

    Cybersecurity is suddenly a sexy field for young engineers.

  2. 6

    Practical tool

    It’s a useful tool, but nobody would call it sexy.

  3. 7

    Academic subject

    Tax law is not the sexiest subject in the world, but she makes it easy to understand.

See also

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • sexy outfit
  • look sexy
  • feel sexy

Word family

  • sexiness

Explore

Forms and spellings

3 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • sexyadjective

Forms

  • sexiestsuperlativeadjective
  • sexiercomparativeadjective