sexual

¹

[sek-shoo-uhl, seks-yoo-]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or for sex.

   Publicly discussing sexual matters was frowned upon in those days.

   The store is known for selling sexual aids.

2. occurring between or involving the sexes.

   In humans, melatonin concentrations are related to sexual maturation, with significant decreases occurring at the onset of puberty.

3. having sexual organs or reproducing by processes involving both sexes.

   The patterns of genetic variation in sexual species tend to be very different from those in asexual species.

-sexual

²

1. a combining form extracted from heterosexual and homosexual, used to describe a person's sexual orientation or identity: polysexual.

   pansexual;

   polysexual.

2. a combining form extracted from metrosexual, used to describe a person's lifestyle, appearance, or way of dressing with regard to attracting or choosing a romantic partner: lumbersexual.

   vegansexual;

   lumbersexual.

sexual

/ ˈsɛksjʊəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by sex or sexuality

2. (of reproduction) characterized by the union of male and female gametes Compare asexual

Other Word Forms

• sexually adverb
• antisexual adjective
• antisexually adverb
• nonsexual adjective
• nonsexually adverb
• unsexual adjective
• unsexually adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual¹

First recorded in 1645–55; from Late Latin sexuālis, from sexu(s) sex + -ālis -al ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of sexual¹

C17: from Late Latin sexuālis ; see _sex

Example Sentences

For the Catholic Church, no aspect of Pope Francis' record is more sensitive or contentious than his handling of the sexual abuse of children by members of the clergy.

From BBC

Soon, hundreds had come forward and their lawyers were fighting in court to prise open decades of internal records relating to the sexual abuse of children.

From BBC

But over that same period, through a series of global scandals which are still unfolding, the issue of the systemic sexual exploitation of children has become the modern Church's biggest challenge.

From BBC

Using drugs with, caring for or having sexual contact with an infected person are also common means of infection, according to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

But the Pope heads a huge, wealthy institution with significant moral authority and global sway on everything from conflict resolution to sexual politics.

From BBC

Related Words

• carnal 
• erotic 
• intimate 
• passionate 
• reproductive 
• sensual