sapiosexual
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.”
How to Use Sapiosexual
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who finds cleverness the most attractive thing about a person.
Neutral; mostly seen on dating apps and in writing about relationships.
Compare demisexual, which is about needing an emotional bond first rather than valuing a particular trait.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
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.