sexually
adv.-
1 related to physical attraction (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediatein a way that relates to physical attraction or sexual feelings.
in a manner relating to sexual desire, orientation, or physical attraction.
ExampleHe found her sexually attractive from the moment they met.
ExampleThe film explores the complex ways in which people are sexually drawn to onehouse another despite having nothing in common.
UsageOften used before adjectives like 'attractive', 'active', or 'explicit'.
- erotically
- romantically
-
2 related to the act of sex (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediate Medicinerelating to the physical act of sex.
with respect to the act of sexual intercourse.
ExampleThe doctor asked if he was currently sexually active.
ExamplePublic health campaigns often focus on encouraging sexually active teenagers to practice safe habits to prevent the spread of disease.
UsageCommonly occurs in the fixed phrase 'sexually active'.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 biological reproduction (adv.) C1 Advanced Technical Sciencehow some living things produce babies by combining male and female cells.
by means of sexual reproduction involving the fusion of gametes.
ExampleMost mammals reproduce sexually rather than by making copies of themselves.
ExampleBiologists study why certain species evolved to reproduce sexually despite the high energy costs compared to asexual cloning.
UsageAlmost exclusively used in biological or scientific contexts.
- asexually
From sexual + -ly.