sexual intercourse

American  

[sek-shoo-uhl in-ter-kawrs] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl ˈɪn tərˌkɔrs /

noun

1. genital contact, especially the insertion of the penis into the vagina followed by orgasm; coitus; copulation.

2. a sex act that involves penetration of one person’s vagina, anus, or mouth by another person for the sexual gratification of one or both parties.

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sexual intercourse British  

noun

1. the act carried out for procreation or for pleasure in which, typically, the insertion of the male's erect penis into the female's vagina is followed by rhythmic thrusting usually culminating in orgasm; copulation; coitus

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Etymology

Origin of sexual intercourse

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

It can cause extreme pain during periods, sexual intercourse and bowel movements, as well as pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea and fatigue.

From BBC • Aug. 17, 2025

The WHO defines infertility as a disease of the male or female reproductive system that is defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.

From Reuters • Apr. 4, 2023

During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual intercourse from sunrise until sunset.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 21, 2023

Mr. Lehrmann, 27, was charged in August 2021 with one count of sexual intercourse without consent.

From New York Times • Oct. 4, 2022

There is no ground whatever for the belief that to a fairly advanced child a serious person cannot suitably describe all the natural processes of the human body, including sexual intercourse.

From The Sexual Life of the Child by Paul, Eden

Related Words

• cohabitation