adj
asexual
ay-SEHK-shoo-uhl
adj
1
Not experiencing sexual attraction to others.
"She identifies as asexual and has never felt sexual attraction to anyone."
2
Reproducing without the fusion of sex cells from two parents, as in many plants, fungi, and simple organisms.
"Some starfish reproduce asexually by splitting off part of their body."
noun
1
A person who does not experience sexual attraction.
"The support group is specifically for asexuals and their partners."
How to Use Asexual
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHas two separate everyday uses: a sexual orientation (not experiencing sexual attraction), and a biology term for reproduction without mating.
Common mistake
Asexuality (the orientation) is not the same as celibacy — celibacy is a choice not to have sex; asexuality is about attraction, regardless of behavior.
Common pairings
asexual reproduction
identify as asexual
asexual orientation
Word Forms
asexuals plural
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The support group is specifically for _____ and their partners.
Etymology
Built from a- ("without") plus "sexual," from Latin sexus ("sex").