What does sexual mean?
Sexual is an adjective relating to sex in its biological, emotional, and social senses. It describes sexual activity and relationships, attraction and desire, orientation, health, education, and communication. It can also characterize imagery, humor, or artistic material intended to provoke sexual interest, although in such contexts “sexually explicit” may be more exact. The word has a broad register: it appears in scientific and medical discussion, as well as in ordinary conversation and the language of art and entertainment. In contemporary usage, people are often described as “sexually attracted” to someone rather than simply “sexual,” because this can avoid implying that sexual attraction defines the whole person. Related forms include “sexually,” “sexuality,” and “sexy,” but they are not exact synonyms. Although the vocabulary surrounding sex can be sensitive or explicit, the adjective itself is standard and frequently used in public, educational, and clinical settings.
Relating to sex, sexual activity, attraction, desire, or the biological differences associated with sex.
"The clinic provides confidential sexual-health advice and testing."
The adjective is neutral in medical and educational contexts. For a person's attraction, “sexually attracted” is often clearer than “sexual.”
Characterized by sexual attraction, desire, or responsiveness.
"She acknowledged that she was sexually attracted to him."
When describing identity or orientation, specify the relevant category rather than implying that one broad adjective captures every aspect of a person's sexuality.
Intended to provoke or express sexual interest or desire.
"The advertisement used provocative, sexual imagery to attract attention."
For material that explicitly depicts sexual acts, “sexually explicit” is usually more precise.
One of the most familiar words beginning with “sex” also leads to sexy, sexuality, and sexually.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sexual come from?
The adjective derives from the Latin adjective sexualis, meaning “of or relating to sex” or “pertaining to the sexual organs.” It was borrowed into English during the early modern period and has since become the standard adjective for matters involving sex, attraction, and sexual activity. Its related English derivatives include “sexuality,” “sexually,” and “sexy.”
Related word forms
How sexual is actually used
In modern usage, “sexually attracted” is generally more precise than describing a person as “sexual,” which may be understood as making conduct or identity the primary focus. The term can also be used formally in biology, medicine, education, and public-health contexts.
Easily confused with sexual
Sensual usually emphasizes physical or aesthetic pleasure, whereas sexual specifically concerns sex, sexual attraction, or sexual activity.
Sexy commonly means appealingly or overtly sexual, while sexual has a broader, more neutral range of meanings.