masturbation
Americannoun
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the stimulation or manipulation of one's own genitals, especially to orgasm; sexual self-gratification.
-
the stimulation, by manual or other means exclusive of sexual intercourse, of another's genitals, especially to orgasm.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of masturbation
First recorded in 1760–70; masturbate + -ion
Explanation
Masturbation is the act of bringing yourself to orgasm. It's sex with yourself, usually by yourself. In slang, there are hundreds and maybe thousands of vulgar terms for masturbation, almost all of which are inappropriate in most situations. Society's attitude towards masturbation has changed a lot over time. People used to think it was unhealthy, and some religions considered it a sin. Some still consider it wrong, and not everyone wants to talk about it, but most people now understand that masturbation is a harmless part of life.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some asexuals are completely uninterested in sex of any kind, including masturbation.
From Slate ● Jul. 29, 2020
However, Catholic Relief Services said, it did not collaborate with Planned Parenthood, did not promote or “normalize” homosexuality or masturbation for teens and did not promote or encourage use of birth control.
From Washington Times ● Feb. 9, 2015
The hearings are in response to an uproar from parents over a comprehensive sex ed curriculum that included age-appropriate information about sexual health, relationships, domestic violence, birth control, masturbation and gender identity.
From Salon ● Nov. 14, 2014
A: It can, but it also detects elevations of the protein caused by benign prostate diseases, urinary tract and other infections, sexual activity and masturbation.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 14, 2011
According to the Report of the Institution, for 1838, out of 199 patients, 42 are considered victims of masturbation.
From A Disquisition on the Evils of Using Tobacco and the Necessity of Immediate and Entire Reformation by Fowler, Orin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
