Sexy

Definition

"Sexy" describes someone or something that is sexually attractive or exciting. It can also refer to qualities that are appealing or interesting in a way that is provocatively suggestive or stimulating.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛksi/
• Respelling: SEX-ee (with "SEX" as in "next," and "ee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɛksi/
• Respelling: SEX-ee (similar to American English, with "SEX" as in "next," and "ee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "sexy" is pronounced with the initial "s" sound followed by a short "e" sound, as in "next," then ending with a "ks" sound and the long "ee" sound, as in "see." The primary stress is on the first syllable, "SEX."

Etymology

‍ The term "sexy" comes from the word "sex," which has roots in the Latin "sexus," referring to the distinction between males and females. The adjective form "sexy" started to be used in the early 20th century to describe someone as sexually appealing.

Derivatives

• Sexiness (noun)
• Sexily (adverb)

Synonyms

• Attractive
• Alluring
• Seductive

Antonyms

• Unattractive
• Plain
• Undesirable

Usage

• As an adjective: "The actor was voted the sexiest man alive."

Related Terms

• Attractiveness: The quality of being appealing to look at; physically appealing.
• Charm: The power or quality of giving delight or arousing admiration.
• Sensual: Relating to or involving gratification of the senses and physical, especially sexual, pleasure.

Detailed Definition

As an Adjective

• Sexually attractive or exciting: "She wore a sexy dress to the party."
• Having interesting or appealing qualities: "The idea of traveling around the world is very sexy."
• Provocatively suggestive: "The advertisement was criticized for being too sexy."
• Informally, excitingly appealing or interesting, not necessarily in a sexual context: "The startup's new technology is sexy in the tech community."