homosexuality

[hoh-muh-sek-shoo-al-i-tee, -seks-yoo-]

noun

Sometimes Disparaging and Offensive.

1. sexual desire or behavior directed toward people of one's own sex or gender.

2. the state of being sexually attracted only to people of one's own sex or gender.

homosexuality

/ ˌhɒm-, ˌhəʊməʊˌsɛksjʊˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. sexual attraction to or sexual relations with members of the same sex Compare heterosexuality

homosexuality

1. A sexual attraction between persons of the same sex. (See gay and lesbian; compare heterosexuality.)

Usage

Is “homosexuality” offensive? See homosexual.

Other Word Forms

• antihomosexuality noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of homosexuality¹

First recorded in 1890–95; homo- + sexuality

Example Sentences

The 2034 tournament will be held in Saudi Arabia, where homosexuality is also illegal.

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Zain, who lives in Riyadh, said he was shocked to hear jokes like this, in a country which is known for being ultra-conservative socially, and where homosexuality remains illegal.

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It has also argued in court for the criminalization of homosexuality, stating in an amicus brief in Lawrence v.

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“He believes climate change is God’s will. He compares homosexuality to bestiality and pedophilia. He believes only Christians have a right to serve in public office.”

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Burkina Faso's unelected transitional parliament has passed a bill banning homosexual acts, a little over a year after a draft of an amended family code that criminalised homosexuality was adopted by the country's cabinet.

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