Definition

Noun: * Sexual Attraction: The feeling of being drawn to or interested in another person specifically because of a desire for sexual intimacy or contact. It is a type of attraction based on physical and/or emotional characteristics that elicit sexual desire.

Usage

• This term is used to describe a specific, instinctive pull toward someone that is rooted in sexuality.
• It is a fundamental component of human relationships and romance, but it is distinct from other forms of attraction, such as platonic (friendship) or aesthetic (appreciation of beauty) attraction.
• It can be experienced regardless of whether the feeling is acted upon.

Examples

• Their initial meeting was marked by an immediate and powerful sexual attraction.
• The film explores the complex sexual attraction between the two main characters.
• She explained that for her, romantic love involves more than just sexual attraction.
• He felt a strong sexual attraction toward his colleague, which made their professional relationship complicated.

Advanced Usage

• Sexual attraction is a key concept in psychology, sociology, and gender/sexuality studies (e.g., LGBTQ+ studies).
• The term is often discussed in the context of sexual orientation, which describes a person's pattern of sexual attraction based on gender (e.g., heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual).
• A person may experience little to no sexual attraction, which is described by the term asexuality.

Variants and Related Words

• Attraction (n): A more general term for the feeling of being drawn to someone or something. is a specific subtype.
• Chemistry (n, informal): Often used to describe a mutual, palpable sense of romantic or sexual attraction between people.
• Desire (n): A strong feeling of wanting something, which can include sexual wanting.
• Libido (n): A person's overall sexual drive or desire, which is related to but not the same as attraction to a specific person.

Synonyms

• Animal magnetism: A very strong, almost primal sexual attraction.
• Physical attraction: Often used interchangeably, though it can sometimes emphasize purely physical characteristics more than the emotional component of .
• Sexual desire: Focuses more on the wanting aspect than the feeling of being drawn in.

Antonyms

• Aversion: A strong dislike or disinclination.
• Repulsion: A feeling of intense distaste or disgust.
• (Sexual) Indifference: A lack of interest or attraction.

Noun

1. attractiveness on the basis of sexual desire