English Reference
adjective · noun

erotic

adj. · n.
US /ɪˈɹɑtɪk/ UK /ɪɹˈɒtɪk/ erot·ic UK spelling erotics

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.relating to or causing sexual desire or excitement.

    adj.relating to, tending to arouse, or satisfying sexual desire.

    Simple

    The gallery was filled with erotic paintings from the eighteenth century.

    In context

    The director was praised for his ability to create an erotic atmosphere through lighting and sound rather than explicit imagery.

    sensualsuggestivetitillating
  2. 02 C2 Proficiency Literary Theatre

    n.a poem or piece of writing about love and desire.

    n.an amorous composition or poem, typically focusing on romantic or sexual themes.

    Simple

    The scholar spent years translating ancient erotics found in the ruins.

    In context

    In his later years, the poet turned away from political satire to compose delicate erotics dedicated to his muse.

    Usage

    Usually refers to a specific literary genre or a single work within that genre.

    love poemromance

From French érotique, from Ancient Greek ἐρωτικός (erōtikós, “related to love”), from ἔρως (érōs, “sexual love”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Ancient Greek ἐρωτικός
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated