adjective
sapiosexual
say-pee-oh-SEK-shoo-uhl
Sapiosexual (adjective) means finding intelligence the most sexually attractive quality in another person, above looks or status. Example: “He describes himself as sapiosexual and says a good argument is the fastest way to his heart.”
adjective
1
Finding intelligence the most sexually attractive quality in another person, above looks or status.
"He describes himself as sapiosexual and says a good argument is the fastest way to his heart."
"Her dating profile said sapiosexual, which turned out to mean she wanted to talk about books."
noun
1
A person who is most attracted to intelligence in a partner.
"Sapiosexuals tend to say chemistry starts with conversation."
How to use sapiosexual
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who finds cleverness the most attractive thing about a person.
When to use it
Neutral; mostly seen on dating apps and in writing about relationships.
Memory tip
Compare demisexual, which is about needing an emotional bond first rather than valuing a particular trait.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
identify as sapiosexual
sapiosexual attraction
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He describes himself as _____ and says a good argument is the fastest way to his heart.
Etymology
From Latin sapiens "wise, intelligent" plus sexual.
Rhymes for sapiosexual
See all rhymes for sapiosexual →Frequently asked questions
Is sapiosexual a sexual orientation?
Most researchers treat it as a stated preference rather than an orientation, because it describes which trait attracts you rather than which gender does. A person can be sapiosexual and also straight, gay or bisexual.
Why do some people object to the word sapiosexual?
Critics argue it can be a flattering way of saying you look down on people you consider less educated, and that formal education is often mistaken for intelligence. Others simply find it a pretentious label for something most people want anyway.
What is the meaning of sapiosexual?
"sapiosexual" (adjective) means finding intelligence the most sexually attractive quality in another person, above looks or status.
What are the different meanings of sapiosexual?
"sapiosexual" has 2 main meanings: 1. Finding intelligence the most sexually attractive quality in another person, above looks or status; 2. A person who is most attracted to intelligence in a partner.
