sexual

¹

[ sek-shoo-uhlor, especially British, seks-yoo- ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or for sex:

   Publicly discussing sexual matters was frowned upon in those days.

   The store is known for selling sexual aids.

2. occurring between or involving the sexes:

   In humans, melatonin concentrations are related to sexual maturation, with significant decreases occurring at the onset of puberty.

3. having sexual organs or reproducing by processes involving both sexes:

   The patterns of genetic variation in sexual species tend to be very different from those in asexual species.

-sexual

²

1. a combining form extracted from heterosexual and homosexual, used to describe a person's sexual orientation or identity: polysexual.

   pansexual;

   polysexual.

2. a combining form extracted from metrosexual, used to describe a person's lifestyle, appearance, or way of dressing with regard to attracting or choosing a romantic partner: lumbersexual.

   vegansexual;

   lumbersexual.

sexual

/ ˈsɛksjʊəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by sex or sexuality
2. (of reproduction) characterized by the union of male and female gametes Compare asexual

Derived Forms

• ˈsexually, adverb

Other Word Forms

• sex·u·al·ly adverb
• an·ti·sex·u·al adjective
• an·ti·sex·u·al·ly adverb
• non·sex·u·al adjective noun
• non·sex·u·al·ly adverb
• un·sex·u·al adjective
• un·sex·u·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual¹

First recorded in 1645–55; from Late Latin sexuālis, from sexu(s) sex + -ālis -al ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual¹

C17: from Late Latin sexuālis ; see sex

Example Sentences

Naval, who is from Elk Grove, was arrested Sunday and was facing charges of kidnapping and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor child.

From Los Angeles Times

She accused her father of sexual and verbal abuse in October 2014, then recanted her allegations.

From Los Angeles Times

Penly sued Carter on three counts: sexual assault, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress.

From Los Angeles Times

The party has now directed its elected representatives to avoid providing character references where allegations of violence or sexual crimes are involved.

From BBC

Among the steps are an annual “Be Seen: Be Heard” effort, described as “a district-wide, age-appropriate sexual assault and abuse awareness and prevention” program.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• carnal
• erotic
• intimate
• passionate
• reproductive
• sensual