English Reference

Word

genitals

Phoneticsgen·i·tals, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈdʒɛnətəɫz/

UK/dʒˈɛnɪtəlz/

Plural noun

Definition

n. the external sex organs of a person or animal.

n. the external reproductive organs of an organism.

Examples

“The doctor examined the patient's genitals for signs of infection.”

“In many species, the appearance of the genitals changes significantly during the breeding season to signal fertility.”

“Medical students must learn to perform examinations of the genitals with professional detachment and respect for patient privacy, ensuring that clinical standards are maintained throughout the procedure.”

Examples

simple

“The doctor examined the patient's genitals for signs of infection.”

contextual

“In many species, the appearance of the genitals changes significantly during the breeding season to signal fertility.”

complex

“Medical students must learn to perform examinations of the genitals with professional detachment and respect for patient privacy, ensuring that clinical standards are maintained throughout the procedure.”

Usage

Takes plural verb agreement; the singular form 'genital' is almost exclusively used as an adjective.

Real-World Examples

“In other snails, left- and right-coiling versions are not usually able to mate, because the genitals are on opposite sides.”
Phys.org 16 Oct 2026
“The most important thing I learned is that sending pictures of one’s genitals has different meanings for different men – and different meanings for the same men at different points in their lives.”
The Guardian 8 Jan 2019

Word family

NOUN

genitals(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference