lovemaking

[ luhv-mey-king ]

noun

1. the act of courting or wooing.
2. sexual activity.

lovemaking

/ ˈlʌvˌmeɪkɪŋ /

noun

1. sexual play and activity between lovers, esp including sexual intercourse
2. an archaic word for courtship

Word History and Origins

Origin of lovemaking¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; love, making

Example Sentences

“I didn’t have a sex addiction. I had an affection addiction. I wanted women to love me. Sex was just a side effect to my lovemaking.”

From Los Angeles Times

They’re filled with rooms for sleeping, lovemaking, fighting; contain corridors that lead to areas of welcome and comfort; shelter spaces that hold secrets.

From New York Times

Though nothing graphic is ever shown, the lingering lovemaking scenes – particularly one between Tomas and Martin — led the Motion Picture Association to slap “Passages” with its highest rating.

From Seattle Times

It’s hard to switch gears and throw yourself into passionate lovemaking, Garrity posits, when you’re in pajamas cleaning up your children’s scattered toys.

From New York Times

The passionate lovemaking that follows marks both a culmination and a beginning.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• intercourse
• kissing
• mating
• sexual intercourse