unsexual
Definition
- Adjective:
- Lacking sexual characteristics or desire: "unsexual" describes something or someone that does not exhibit or involve sexual features, functions, or interests.
- Not related to sex: In a broader sense, "unsexual" can refer to actions, relationships, or objects that are devoid of sexual context or connotation.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The biologist described the organism as unsexual, meaning it reproduces without the need for a mate. (Lacking sexual characteristics in a biological sense.)
- Their friendship remained entirely unsexual, based purely on shared interests and mutual respect. (Not involving sexual attraction or activity.)
- The artist's work was intentionally unsexual, focusing on abstract forms rather than human anatomy. (Lacking sexual themes or imagery.)
Advanced Usage
"to be unsexual in nature": to have no sexual aspect or quality.
- The discussion was unsexual in nature, covering only professional topics. (The conversation avoided any sexual content.)
"unsexual reproduction": a biological term for asexual reproduction.
- Some plants undergo unsexual reproduction, producing clones of themselves. (Reproduction without the fusion of gametes.)
Variants and Related Words
Unsexuality (noun): the state or quality of being unsexual.
- The unsexuality of the organism allowed it to thrive in isolated environments. (Its lack of sexual reproduction.)
Unsexually (adverb): in a manner that lacks sexual characteristics or context.
- They interacted unsexually, as colleagues in a professional setting. (Without any sexual undertones.)
Synonyms
- Asexual: lacking sexual organs or functions; not involving sex.
- Non-sexual: not relating to or involving sex.
- Platonic: (of love or friendship) intimate and affectionate but not sexual.
Phrasal Verbs
Related Idioms
- "Unsexual as a handshake": a figurative expression meaning completely devoid of sexual meaning or intent.
- Their greeting was unsexual as a handshake, formal and respectful. (No romantic or sexual implications.)