making love
Noun: 1. Sexual activity, especially sexual intercourse, between two people: The term "making love" refers to intimate physical acts, typically culminating in sexual intercourse, shared by two individuals. It emphasizes the romantic or affectionate context of the sexual act, distinguishing it from purely physical encounters.
"Making love" is used as a noun phrase to describe the act of having sex within a context of emotional intimacy and affection. It is often considered a more romantic or euphemistic term than "having sex" or "sexual intercourse."
- As a Gerund/Noun Phrase: The phrase functions as a singular noun. It is commonly preceded by verbs like "enjoy," "think about," or "describe."
- She enjoyed making love with her partner. (Here, "making love" is the object of the verb "enjoyed").
- Implied Context: The phrase often carries an implicit understanding of mutual consent, romance, and emotional connection, setting it apart from terms denoting casual sex.
- Lovemaking (n.): A single-word compound noun with the same meaning as "making love."
- Their lovemaking was gentle and passionate.
- Make love (v. phrase): The verb form from which the noun is derived.
- The couple wanted to make love. (Verb phrase).
- Sexual intercourse: A more clinical and formal term.
- Lovemaking: A direct synonym, often used interchangeably.
- Having sex: A common, general term that may or may not imply emotional intimacy.
- Cohabitation (in some contexts): Can imply a sexual relationship within a shared living arrangement, but is broader.
The core meaning of "making love" is specifically related to sexual intimacy. It should not be confused with non-physical expressions of love, such as saying "I love you" or giving gifts. In older or very formal literature, "to make love to someone" could historically mean "to court or woo someone," but this usage is now archaic. The modern meaning is almost exclusively sexual.
- 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