# erotic

/ɪˈɹɑtɪk/ (US) · /ɪɹˈɒtɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/erotic
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. arousing desire

adjective · CEFR B2

relating to or causing sexual desire or excitement.

For teachers: relating to, tending to arouse, or satisfying sexual desire.

- The gallery was filled with erotic paintings from the eighteenth century.
- The director was praised for his ability to create an erotic atmosphere through lighting and sound rather than explicit imagery.

### 2. amorous poem

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

a poem or piece of writing about love and desire.

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

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

## Examples

- The museum has a collection of erotic art from ancient Greece.
- The poet was known for writing erotic verses that explored the intensity of human passion and physical connection.
- Critics debated whether the film's erotic themes were essential to the plot or merely included for their shock value in a conservative market.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.