English Reference
noun · verb

sex

n. · v.
US /ˈsɛks/ UK /sˈɛks/ sex

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.physical activity between people that is related to sexual pleasure.

    n.sexual activity, specifically sexual intercourse or other intimate physical acts.

    Simple

    The book discusses how to have a healthy conversation about sex with your partner.

    In context

    The study examines the correlation between physical exercise and a healthy interest in sex among middle-aged adults.

    Usage

    uncountable in this sense.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.all the people of one biological group, such as all women or all men.

    n.the members of a particular biological sex considered collectively.

    Simple

    The club was open to members of either sex.

    In context

    The legislation was designed to prevent discrimination against either sex in the workplace.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    v.to find out if an animal is male or female.

    v.to determine the biological sex of an organism, typically an animal or a plant.

    Simple

    It can be quite difficult to sex some species of birds just by looking at them.

    In context

    The researchers had to sex the hatchlings immediately to ensure an accurate count of the male-to-female ratio in the population.

    Usage

    transitive verb.

Usage sex assault · sex offender · sex offenders

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Very common
Updated