Sex

Definition

Sex is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to biological distinctions between male and female organisms, or activities related to reproduction and physical intimacy. As a verb, it can mean to determine the biological sex of an organism.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛks/
• Respelling: SEKS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛks/
• Respelling: SEKS

Etymology

The word "sex" originates from the Latin "sexus," meaning "state of being male or female." It is derived from "secare," meaning "to divide or cut," reflecting the binary division of biological sexes. The term was adopted into Middle English in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Sexual (adjective)
• Sexuality (noun)
• Sexualize (verb)
• Sexless (adjective)
• Sexism (noun)

Synonyms

• Gender (context-dependent)
• Reproduction
• Intimacy

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "sex" is used in biological, social, and cultural contexts. Examples include "The sex of the animal was determined at birth" (noun) and "They were tasked to sex the chickens on the farm" (verb).

Related Terms

• Gender: Social and cultural roles associated with being male or female.
• Reproduction: The biological process of producing offspring.
• Sexuality: A person's capacity for sexual feelings or orientation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The biological distinction between male and female: Refers to categories based on reproductive anatomy and function.
  • Example: "The scientist studied the differences between the sexes."
• Sexual activity or intercourse: Refers to physical acts of intimacy, typically involving reproduction.
  • Example: "The textbook included a section on the biology of sex."

Verb

• To determine the biological sex of an organism: Refers to identifying whether an animal is male or female.
  • Example: "The farmer was able to sex the chicks with ease."