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

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

Those he cited include precedents barring states from criminalizing or otherwise blocking people from buying and using contraception; sexual intercourse between consenting adults of the same sex; and interracial or same-sex marriages.

From New York Times • May 5, 2022

Vasyl knew his HIV could only be passed on through sexual intercourse or blood transfusion, but he was worried what would happen if his colleagues found out.

From BBC • Nov. 30, 2019

Muslims are forbidden from engaging in sexual intercourse, cutting their hair or trimming nails while in the state of ihram.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 8, 2019

At the age of 30 I found a friend who, though quite heterosexual, has, without giving me any sexual intercourse, given me the love I have always needed.

From Studies in the Psychology of Sex, Volume 2 Sexual Inversion by Ellis, Havelock

Related Words

• cohabitation