verb
copulate
KOP-yuu-layt
Copulate (verb) means to have sexual intercourse (often used of animals in biological or clinical contexts).
verb
1
To have sexual intercourse (often used of animals in biological or clinical contexts).
"The documentary showed the birds copulate during their mating ritual."
How to use copulate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo mate or have sex — a clinical, biological term rather than an everyday one.
When to use it
Formal/clinical register, common in biology and medical writing rather than casual conversation.
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- copulates
- Past tense
- copulated
Etymology
From Latin copulatus, past participle of copulare ("to join, couple, connect").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for copulate
See all rhymes for copulate →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of copulate?
"copulate" (verb) means to have sexual intercourse (often used of animals in biological or clinical contexts).
What is another word for copulate?
Other words for "copulate" include couple, pair, mate.
What is the opposite of copulate?
Opposites of "copulate" include abstain, keep it in one's pants, wouldn't touch with yours.
How do you use copulate in a sentence?
Example: "The documentary showed the birds copulate during their mating ritual."
