love-making

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Courtship or romantic advances: "love-making" refers to the act of expressing romantic interest or affection, often through words or gestures (e.g., wooing, flirting, or courting).
   • Sexual intercourse: "love-making" also denotes the physical act of sex, especially when considered in a romantic or intimate context.

Usage Examples

• Courtship:

  • His love-making was gentle and persistent, winning her heart over several months. (His romantic advances and expressions of affection were tender and consistent.)
  • The novel describes the love-making of the two protagonists in the early stages of their relationship. (The story focuses on their courtship and romantic interactions.)

• Sexual intercourse:

  • The film included a scene of love-making that was tastefully done. (A scene depicting sexual intimacy was handled with discretion.)
  • They retired to the bedroom for love-making after a romantic dinner. (They engaged in sexual activity as an expression of their affection.)

Advanced Usage

• "to make love": the verb phrase from which "love-making" is derived, meaning to engage in romantic or sexual activity.

  • They made love under the stars. (They had sexual intercourse in a romantic setting.)

• "love-making as art": In some contexts, "love-making" can refer to the skillful or artistic expression of romantic or sexual intimacy.

  • The poet described love-making as a dance of souls. (The poet used metaphor to portray intimate relations as a refined, emotional exchange.)

Variants and Related Words

• Love (n/v): strong affection or deep romantic feelings.

  • Their love was evident in every gesture. (Their deep affection was clear.)

• Make love (verb phrase): to engage in romantic or sexual activity.

  • They made love for the first time on their honeymoon. (They had sexual intercourse.)

• Lover (n): a person who is in a romantic or sexual relationship with another.

  • She was his lover for many years. (She was his romantic partner.)

Synonyms

• Courtship: the process of seeking romantic affection, often before marriage.
• Wooing: the act of trying to win someone's love or favor.
• Sexual intercourse: the physical act of sex (more clinical term).
• Intimacy: close familiarity or sexual relations.

Related Idioms

• "to make love, not war": a slogan advocating peace and romantic connection over conflict.

  • The protesters chanted, "Make love, not war!" (They urged people to pursue romance and peace instead of fighting.)

• "love-making is a two-way street": a saying that emphasizes mutual effort and reciprocity in romantic or sexual relationships.

  • Remember, love-making is a two-way street; both partners need to communicate. (Both parties must contribute and share in intimate moments.)