ENGLISH
REFERENCE

erotic

adj. · n.
US //ɪˈɹɑtɪk// UK //ɪɹˈɒtɪk// erot·ic
  1. 1 arousing desire (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    relating to or causing sexual desire or excitement.

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The director was praised for his ability to create an erotic atmosphere through lighting and sound rather than explicit imagery.
  2. 2 amorous poem (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Literary Theatre

    a poem or piece of writing about love and desire.

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

    Example

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

    Example

    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.
Origin

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

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