sexy
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɛksi/
US
- /ˈsɛksi/
Description
- Attractive
- Alluring
- Sexually suggestive
- Stylish
- Exciting
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.
The word "sexy" started as a direct way to talk about sexual attractiveness, and that meaning is still its core meaning today. When people use it about a person, they usually mean that the person seems physically attractive in a way that creates sexual interest. But the word has grown beyond that. In modern English, it is also often used for things that feel sleek, stylish, exciting, or hard to resist.
That is why people may talk about a "sexy" car, a "sexy" design, or even a "sexy" business idea. In these cases, they usually do not mean anything sexual in a literal sense. They mean that the thing stands out, feels modern, and has strong appeal. The word can also suggest confidence, charm, and energy, so it is not always limited to looks alone.
Even so, "sexy" is a word that needs care. In friendly or romantic situations, it may sound flattering or playful. In professional, public, or sensitive situations, it may sound too personal, disrespectful, or objectifying. The tone depends on who says it, who hears it, and where it is used. So while the word can describe both people and things, its real meaning always comes from context.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
She felt sexy in her new red dress.
- 2
Voice
He lowered his voice and tried to sound sexy.
- 3
Brand image
The perfume brand built its image around a sexy, glamorous style.
- 4
Web design
The company wants a website that looks modern and sexy.
Meaning
sexy here
stylish and exciting, not about sex
- 5
Career field
Cybersecurity is suddenly a sexy field for young engineers.
- 6
Practical tool
It’s a useful tool, but nobody would call it sexy.
- 7
Academic subject
Tax law is not the sexiest subject in the world, but she makes it easy to understand.
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sexyadjective
Forms
- sexiestsuperlativeadjective
- sexiercomparativeadjective