Definition of SEX - Merriam-Webster

Overview

The term "sex" is defined in multiple contexts as per the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. It is a noun with meanings related to biological distinction, sexual behavior, and reproductive roles, as well as a verb with meanings related to identification and enhancement of sexual characteristics.

Noun Meanings

1. Biological Forms

   • Sex refers to the major forms of individuals, distinguished as male or female based on reproductive organs and structures.
   • Examples include determining a baby's sex and legal contexts such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

2. Characteristics

   • Refers to the structural, functional, and behavioral characteristics distinguishing males and females.
   • Highlights the distinction between sex and gender, with bodily sex not determining gender.

3. Group and Behavior

   • Refers to males or females as a group and sexually motivated phenomena or behaviors.
   • Includes sexual intercourse and genitalia.

Verb Meanings

1. Identification

   • To identify the sex of something, such as newborn chicks.

2. Enhancement

   • To increase sexual appeal or arouse desires, often used with "up."

Synonyms for Noun

• Coition, coitus, commerce, congress, copulation, intercourse, lovemaking, mating, relations, sexual act, and others.

Usage Guide

• Sex vs. Gender:
  • Historically, both terms have been used interchangeably.
  • Sex refers to biological forms, whereas gender refers to behavioral, cultural, or psychological traits.
  • Modern usage often reserves "sex" for biological contexts and "gender" for sociocultural contexts.
  • There's an increasing trend of using "gender" in contexts like gender discrimination, equality, and roles.

Etymology and Historical Context

• Noun: Traces back to Middle English from Latin "sexus."
• First Known Use: 14th century for the noun and 1878 for the verb.

Phrases Containing 'Sex'

• Includes terms like anti-sex, fairer sex, opposite sex, oral sex, safe sex, and many more.

Rhymes

• Examples include becks, checks, decks, etc.

Related Articles

• Discusses gender identity, expressions, and the distinction between sex and gender.

Additional Resources

• For more information, access the Merriam-Webster Dictionary online at Merriam-Webster.com.