noun

sodomy

SO-duh-mee

Sodomy (noun) means a legal and historical term for anal or oral sex, sometimes also used for bestiality; historically used to criminalize homosexual acts.

noun

A legal and historical term for anal or oral sex, sometimes also used for bestiality; historically used to criminalize homosexual acts.

"Sodomy laws in many countries were used to persecute gay men for decades."

How to use sodomy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old legal term for certain sex acts, historically used in discriminatory laws.

When to use it

Largely a legal/historical term now; considered outdated and loaded when applied to consensual adult relationships.

Word forms

sodomies plural

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Etymology

Derived from the biblical city of Sodom, described in Genesis as destroyed for its inhabitants' wickedness.

Synonyms

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anal sex anal intercourse

Related words

buggery

Rhymes for sodomy

roomy gloomy economy anatomy taxonomy autonomy lobotomy dichotomy astronomy colostomy vasectomy phlebotomy

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Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of sodomy?

"sodomy" (noun) means a legal and historical term for anal or oral sex, sometimes also used for bestiality; historically used to criminalize homosexual acts.

What is another word for sodomy?

Other words for "sodomy" include anal sex, anal intercourse.

How do you use sodomy in a sentence?

Example: "Sodomy laws in many countries were used to persecute gay men for decades."

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