# foreplay

/ˈfɔɹˌpɫeɪ/ (US) · /fˈɔːpleɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/foreplay
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

sexual activity that happens before people have sex. It is meant to help both partners feel ready and excited.

For teachers: sexual activity that precedes intercourse, intended to increase arousal and physical readiness. Often involves touching, kissing, or other forms of intimacy.

## Examples

- They spent a long time on foreplay before having sex.
- Health experts emphasize that foreplay is an essential part of a healthy and consensual sexual relationship.
- The novel explores how emotional intimacy and extended foreplay can strengthen the bond between long-term partners, moving beyond purely physical descriptions of their encounters.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an uncountable noun; occasionally used metaphorically to describe the lead-up to a major event.

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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.