What does sexualisation mean?
Sexualisation refers to the process of making something sexual or appealing to sexual desires, often in a way that is considered inappropriate or exploitative. This can involve the objectification of individuals, particularly women, or the portrayal of sex in a way that is considered titillating or sensational. Sexualisation is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be used to describe a wide range of phenomena, from advertising and media to art and literature. It is often used in academic or critical discussions of these topics, and can be used to highlight issues of power and exploitation. While sexualisation can be a useful tool for analysis and critique, it can also be a loaded term that is subject to interpretation and debate. As such, it is essential to approach the concept of sexualisation with nuance and sensitivity, recognizing both its potential for critique and its potential for harm.
The process of making something sexual or appealing to sexual desires, often in a way that is considered inappropriate or exploitative.
"The objectification of women in advertising is an example of sexualisation."
Sexualisation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often used in academic or critical discussions of media and culture.
To make something sexual or appealing to sexual desires, often in a way that is considered inappropriate or exploitative.
"The company was accused of sexualising their products to appeal to a younger audience."
Sexualising can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often used in academic or critical discussions of media and culture.
The plural form 'sexualisations' is used to describe multiple instances of the process of making something sexual or appealing to sexual desires.
"The media has been accused of perpetuating multiple instances of sexualisation in their advertising and programming."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sexualisation
The term 'sexualisation' is derived from the Latin 'sexus', meaning 'sex' or 'gender'. This Latin root is also the source of the English word 'sexual', which has been used in English since the 15th century. The French word 'sexualiser', meaning 'to make sexual', was borrowed into English in the 19th century, and has since been used to describe the process of making something sexual or appealing to sexual desires.
How sexualisation is actually used
Sexualisation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is often used in academic or critical discussions of media and culture. It can be used to describe a wide range of phenomena, from advertising and media to art and literature.