Sex — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Sex
Sex (noun)
- either of the two major forms of individuals that occur in many species and that are distinguished respectively as female or male especially on the basis of their reproductive organs and structures
- the sum of the structural, functional, and sometimes behavioral characteristics of organisms that distinguish males and females
- the state of being male or female
Sex (verb)
- to identify the sex of
- to increase the sexual appeal of —often used with up
- to arouse the sexual desires of
Sex (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
sexual union involving penetration of the vagina by the penis
"the students learned about the mechanics of sex and reproduction in health class"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Sex
The most common words with a similar meaning to Sex:
Word Forms of Sex
Origin & Etymology of Sex
Middle English, from Latin sexus
First known use: 14th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Sex
- CEFR level: B1 English Vocabulary — Page 14
- Academic Word List: 570 Academic Word List — Page 13
- Topics: Family & People
Words & Phrases Containing Sex
Frequently Asked Questions about Sex
What does "Sex" mean?
"Sex" means either of the two major forms of individuals that occur in many species and that are distinguished respectively as female or male especially on the basis of their reproductive organs and structures. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: either of the two major forms of individuals that occur in many species and that are distinguished respectively as female or male especially on the basis of their reproductive organs and structures.
What is another word for "Sex"?
Other words for "Sex" include coition, coitus, commerce, congress, copulating, copulation, coupling and intercourse. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Sex" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Sex"?
There are 25 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Sex". Common alternatives include coition, coitus, commerce, congress, copulating, copulation, coupling, intercourse, lovemaking and mating.
How do you use "Sex" in a sentence?
Examples of "Sex" in a sentence: "the students learned about the mechanics of sex and reproduction in health class".
Is "Sex" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Sex" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.
Is "Sex" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?
As a B1-level word, "Sex" is typical of Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET), IELTS band 4.0–5.0, TOEFL iBT 42–71, PTE Academic 43–58, TOEIC Listening & Reading 550+. It is on the Academic Word List, so it appears often in IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and university texts.
How do you pronounce "Sex"?
"Sex" is pronounced /ˈseks/.
What is the origin of the word "Sex"?
"Sex" comes from Middle English, from Latin sexus. First known use: 14th century.