eroticism

American  

[ih-rot-uh-siz-uhm] / ɪˈrɒt əˌsɪz əm /

Also erotism

noun

1. the sexual or erotic quality or character of something.

2. the use of sexually arousing or suggestive symbolism, settings, allusions, situations, etc., in art, literature, drama, or the like.

3. the condition of being sexually aroused or excited.

4. sexual drive or tendency.

5. an abnormally persistent sexual drive.

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eroticism British  

/ ɪˈrɒtɪˌsɪzəm, ˈɛrəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. erotic quality or nature

2. the use of sexually arousing or pleasing symbolism in literature or art

3. sexual excitement or desire

4. a tendency to exalt sex

5. psychol an overt display of sexual behaviour

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Other Word Forms

• eroticist noun

Etymology

Origin of eroticism

First recorded in 1880–85; erotic + -ism

Example Sentences

“His relationship to beauty, to eroticism, to death, are still strong themes that keep speaking to us.”

From New York Times

The relationship that develops is a comfortable mutual respect, devoid of fiery eroticism.

From Seattle Times

In Idaho, a proposal would require that a student cannot be exposed to discussions about gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual intimacy and eroticism without the consent from parents.

From Washington Times

Both focus on dampened souls set ablaze by unlikely passion; both unfold in harsh, punishing landscapes; both fiercely acknowledge gender and class; and both feature sudden blooms of panting, explicit eroticism.

From New York Times

But we wanted to leave it open because that's how it works in love stories; someone falls in love, and that romance can have lots of eroticism, none, or can be intermittent.

From Salon