Heterosexual
Heterosexual
Heterosexual (/ˌhɛtərəˈsɛksjʊəl/; from Ancient Greek heteros meaning 'different' and Latin sexualis meaning 'sex') is a term used in sexology to describe sexual and romantic attraction between two individuals of opposite sexes. It is one of the three main classifications of sexual orientation, along with homosexual and bisexual.
Etymology
The term "heterosexual" was first used in the late 19th century, coined as a counterpart to the earlier term "homosexual" by Karl Maria Kertbeny in 1868. It is derived from the Greek word "heteros" (ἕτερος), meaning "different", and the Latin word "sexualis", referring to sex.
Definition
Heterosexuality is characterized by romantic or sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex or gender, or to people who are not of the same sex or gender. It is considered the sexual orientation of those who are attracted to individuals of the opposite sex.
Related Terms
- Homosexual: A term used to describe individuals who are attracted to people of the same sex.
- Bisexual: A term used to describe individuals who are attracted to both men and women.
- Asexual: A term used to describe individuals who do not experience sexual attraction.
- Sexual orientation: A term used to describe patterns of emotional, romantic, and sexual attractions to men, women, both genders, neither gender, or another gender.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Heterosexual
- Wikipedia's article - Heterosexual
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