Definition

1. Noun:
   • The physical expression of romantic or sexual affection between two people; sexual activity, especially when involving emotional intimacy. It refers to acts of physical intimacy, which often include but are not limited to sexual intercourse, shared by partners.

Usage

• The term "lovemaking" specifically emphasizes the emotional, affectionate, and intimate aspect of sexual activity. It is often used to distinguish a tender, connected experience from purely physical sex.
• It is typically used as a non-count noun (e.g., "their lovemaking") but can be used in a countable sense to refer to specific instances (e.g., "a night of passionate lovemaking").

Examples

• Noun:
  • For them, lovemaking was an important form of communication and connection.
  • The film depicted a scene of tender lovemaking.
  • Their relationship lacked intimacy, including meaningful lovemaking.

Advanced Usage

• "To make love" (verb phrase): This is the verbal form from which the noun "lovemaking" is derived. It means to engage in sexual intercourse, especially with feelings of love and tenderness.
  • The couple made love for the first time on their wedding night.

Variants and Related Words

• Make love (v.): The verb phrase meaning to engage in lovemaking.
• Love life (n.): A term for a person's romantic and sexual relationships and experiences in general.
• Sexual intercourse (n.): A more formal or clinical term for the physical act of sex.
• Intimacy (n.): A broader term for close familiarity or connection, which can include emotional and physical aspects, including lovemaking.

Synonyms

• Sexual relations: A formal term for sexual activity between people.
• Intercourse: A common term for sexual congress.
• Physical intimacy: Emphasizes the physically close and personal nature of the act.
• Cohabitation (in a broader sense): Can imply a sexual relationship within a shared living arrangement, though it is not synonymous.

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Abstinence: The act of refraining from sexual activity.
• Celibacy: The state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations.
• Platonic relationship: A close relationship without sexual activity.

Noun

1. sexual activities (often including sexual intercourse) between two people
   • his lovemaking disgusted her
   • he hadn't had any love in months
   • he has a very complicated love life