English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
adjective B2 Upper-Intermediate Very common

sexual

sehk-shoo-uhl
Quiz me More like this

Sexual (adjective) means relating to sex, gender, or reproduction.

adjective
1
Relating to sex, gender, or reproduction.
"Biology lessons cover sexual reproduction in plants and animals."
"The clinic offers advice on sexual health."
"The novel explores themes of sexual identity."
2
Relating to sexual intercourse or intimate physical contact.
"Parents are warned that the programme contains some sexual references."
"The school policy forbids any sexual behaviour on its premises."
"The film contains sexual content not suitable for children."

How to use sexual

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to sex — whether biological, romantic/physical, or to sexuality as an identity.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
sexual health sexual orientation sexual harassment
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like sexual.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice

Word forms

Plural
sexuals
Comparative
more sexual
Superlative
most sexual
Test yourself on “sexual” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin sexualis, from sexus, "sex."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for sexual

See all rhymes for sexual →

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of sexual?
"sexual" (adjective) means relating to sex, gender, or reproduction.
What is another word for sexual?
Other words for "sexual" include reproductive, procreative, carnal, intimate.
What is the opposite of sexual?
The opposite of "sexual" is asexual.
What are the different meanings of sexual?
"sexual" has 2 main meanings: 1. Relating to sex, gender, or reproduction; 2. Relating to sexual intercourse or intimate physical contact.

Featured in

People also searched