homosexuality

[ hoh-muh-sek-shoo-al-i-tee, or, especially British, -seks-yoo- ]

noun

, Sometimes Disparaging and Offensive.

1. sexual desire or behavior directed toward people of one's own sex or gender.
2. the state of being sexually attracted only to people of one's own sex or gender.

homosexuality

/ ˌhɒm-; ˌhəʊməʊˌsɛksjʊˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. sexual attraction to or sexual relations with members of the same sex Compare heterosexuality

homosexuality

1. A sexual attraction between persons of the same sex. ( See gay and lesbian ; compare heterosexuality .)

Usage Note

Is “homosexuality” offensive? See homosexual.

Other Words From

• an·ti·ho·mo·sex·u·al·i·ty noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of homosexuality¹

First recorded in 1890–95; homo- + sexuality

Example Sentences

What gets short shrift, however, is Leonardo’s homosexuality.

From Los Angeles Times

In some cases, if a commander suspected homosexuality but lacked proof, the servicemembers got administratively or punitively discharged preemptively.

From Los Angeles Times

The state has come under intense international scrutiny, with critics highlighting that women's rights are still restricted and homosexuality is illegal.

From BBC

The series explores the complexities of love and homosexuality in the black British community, and the wider impact of coming out as an older man leading a double life.

From BBC

I think what the show has been very successful about is . . . on some shows in the past, they’ll have just one episode that deals with a character's homosexuality, or, you know, other hot-button issues.

From Salon