# genitalia

/dʒɛnəˈtɑɫjə/ (US) · /dʒˌɛnɪtˈeɪliə/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/genitalia
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. external sex organs

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

the outer parts of the body that people use for sex or to have babies.

For teachers: the external reproductive organs of an animal or human. The term is typically treated as a plural noun and is the standard anatomical designation in medical contexts.

- The doctor examined the patient's genitalia for any signs of infection.
- In biological studies, the morphology of the genitalia is often used as a primary characteristic for distinguishing between closely related insect species.

Usage: Usually functions as a plural noun; the singular form 'genitale' is extremely rare in modern English.

Teaching tip: This is the most appropriate term for medical or formal writing. In casual conversation, it can sound overly clinical or uncomfortable.

## Examples

- The doctor examined the patient's genitalia for signs of infection.
- In biology class, students learn to identify the external genitalia of various mammal species.
- The forensic report included a detailed description of the injuries sustained to the victim's genitalia, providing crucial evidence for the prosecution's case.

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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.