Definition

Noun: 1. The act of sexual intercourse between a male and a female: This term refers specifically to the physical act of copulation, often with an implication of its biological function in reproduction. 2. (Technical/Biological) The pairing or coupling of individuals for the purpose of reproduction: Used in biological or formal contexts to describe the mating behavior of animals, including humans.

Usage

The term "sexual union" is a formal, technical, or euphemistic term. It is most commonly found in academic, medical, legal, or religious texts rather than in everyday conversation. - It emphasizes the physical joining or the biological pairing aspect. - It can carry a neutral, scientific tone or, in certain contexts, a solemn or sacred connotation (e.g., in religious marriage contexts).

Examples

• Scientific/Medical Context:
  • The study observed the sexual union of the species in its natural habitat.
  • The doctor explained the process of conception following sexual union.
• Formal/Legal/Religious Context:
  • The ceremony sanctified their sexual union within the bonds of marriage.
  • The contract was void if sexual union had not occurred.

Advanced Usage

• "consummation of a marriage through sexual union": A legal and religious phrase meaning the completion of a marriage by the act of intercourse.
  • In some traditions, a marriage must be consummated by sexual union to be considered valid.

Variants and Related Words

• Copulation (n): A direct biological synonym, often used for animals.
• Coitus (n): A technical term for sexual intercourse.
• Mating (n): The pairing of animals for reproduction; can be used more broadly than "sexual union."
• Intercourse (n): A common term, often preceded by "sexual."

Synonyms

• Intercourse
• Copulation
• Coitus
• Mating (for animals)
• Coupling

Notes on Meaning

While the core definition is the physical act, "sexual union" can sometimes be used more abstractly to represent the intimate bond or partnership between individuals, especially in non-scientific prose. - Their relationship was based on intellectual companionship as much as on sexual union.

Noun

1. the act of pairing a male and female for reproductive purposes
   • the casual couplings of adolescents
   • the mating of some species occurs only in the spring