copulation

[ kop-yuh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

1. sexual intercourse.
2. a joining together or coupling.

Word History and Origins

Origin of copulation¹

1350–1400; Middle English copulacion < Latin cōpulātiōn- (stem of copulātio ) a binding together. See copulate, -ion

Example Sentences

"Male bonobos that are more aggressive obtain more copulations with females, which is something that we would not expect," said Mouginot.

From Science Daily

Her remembrance of scenes of copulations past causes her no shame.

From Los Angeles Times

While males are aggressive with each other, they aren’t aggressive toward females and do not force copulations, despite being twice the size of their mating partners.

From New York Times

Ducks' evolution of a penis is thought to have facilitated males being able to force copulations to gain control of fertilization.

From Salon

The highly promiscuous ruddy ducks never form pair bonds, and almost all copulations are forced.

From National Geographic

Related Words

• intercourse
• procreation
• sexual intercourse