sexual intercourse

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Definition
  1. Noun:
    • The physical act of sexual union between individuals, typically involving genital contact and often specifically referring to vaginal penetration by the penis: "sexual intercourse" denotes the consensual physical act for purposes of procreation, pleasure, or intimacy.
Usage
  • The term "sexual intercourse" is a formal, clinical, or legal term. It is used in medical, legal, academic, and official contexts.
  • It typically refers to a specific act (coitus) but can sometimes be used more broadly in certain legal or technical definitions.
  • In everyday conversation, more colloquial terms are often used.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The doctor asked about the date of her last sexual intercourse.
    • Consent is a fundamental requirement for any sexual intercourse.
    • The law defines the crime based on the occurrence of sexual intercourse.
Advanced Usage
  • "To have sexual intercourse (with someone)": This is the standard verb phrase used with this noun.
    • The study participants reported how frequently they had sexual intercourse.
Variants and Related Words
  • Intercourse (n): When used alone, "intercourse" can mean social interaction or communication (e.g., "social intercourse"). In modern usage, especially without a modifier, it is often understood to mean "sexual intercourse," making the full phrase more precise for clarity.
  • Coitus (n): A technical, biological synonym for sexual intercourse.
  • Copulation (n): A technical term, often used in biological or zoological contexts.
  • Carnal knowledge (n): A legal/archaic term for sexual intercourse.
Synonyms
  • Coitus: (Technical/Biological)
  • Copulation: (Technical, often non-human)
  • Sex: (Broad and colloquial; can refer to the act or the concept)
  • Making love: (Emphasizes emotional intimacy)
  • Sleeping with someone: (Idiomatic/Euphemistic)
Related Phrases
  • Protected sexual intercourse: Intercourse using a barrier method (e.g., a condom) to prevent pregnancy or disease.
  • Unprotected sexual intercourse: Intercourse without the use of contraception or prophylactics.
  • Consensual sexual intercourse: Intercourse to which all parties freely agree.
Notes on Meaning
  • The core meaning involves penile-vaginal penetration. However, in some broader legal, public health, or colloquial contexts, the term may be interpreted to include other acts of sexual penetration.
  • It is distinct from other sexual activities that do not involve this specific act.
Noun
  1. the act of sexual procreation between a man and a woman; the man's penis is inserted into the woman's vagina and excited until orgasm and ejaculation occur