sexuality

[ sek-shoo-al-i-teeor, especially British, seks-yoo- ]

noun

1. sexual character; possession of the structural and functional traits of sex.
2. recognition of or emphasis upon sexual matters.
3. involvement in sexual activity.
4. an organism's preparedness for engaging in sexual activity.

Other Words From

• anti·sexu·ali·ty noun adjective
• super·sexu·ali·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexuality¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; sexual + -ity

Example Sentences

During the three-month trial, both sides portrayed 26-year-old Samuel Woodward as a young man who struggled with his sexuality growing up in a conservative Newport Beach family, with a particularly disapproving father.

From Los Angeles Times

Evans said he hid his sexuality, partly to protect his parents.

From BBC

It’s such a revealing moment for how Aaron understood his sexuality.

From Los Angeles Times

But controversy later struck when Murray used Fighting Talk's 'Defend the Indefensible' segment to ask panellists whether they would be able to "turn" the sexuality of openly gay broadcaster Clare Balding.

From BBC

Gender and sexuality have been a contentious issue throughout this year’s election.

From Salon

Related Words

• desire
• lust
• passion
• sensuality