ENGLISH
REFERENCE

virginity

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //vɝˈdʒɪnɪti// UK //vɜːdʒˈɪnɪti// vir·gin·i·ty

n. the state of never having had sex. People often talk about 'losing' it when they have sex for the first time.

n. the state of never having engaged in sexual intercourse. Often used in the context of a social or personal milestone.


SIMPLE

She decided to wait until marriage to lose her virginity.

CONTEXTUAL

The novel explores the protagonist's transition into adulthood, focusing on the emotional weight of losing his virginity.

COMPLEX

Sociologists often study how different cultures attach varying degrees of moral or social value to the concept of virginity and its preservation.

Origin

From Middle English virginite, from Old French virginite, from Latin virginitas. Equivalent to virgin + -ity. Displaced native Old English mæġeþhād (compare modern English maidhood), originally meaning “girlhood.”

Usage

Commonly used with the verb 'lose' or 'preserve'.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference