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.

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

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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.

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

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

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Related Words

• intercourse 
• procreation 
• sexual intercourse