masturbation

noun

mas·​tur·​ba·​tion ˌma-stər-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce masturbation (audio)
: erotic stimulation especially of one's own genital (see genital sense 2) organs commonly resulting in orgasm and achieved by manual (see manual entry 1 sense 1) or other bodily contact exclusive of sexual intercourse, by instrumental manipulation (see manipulate sense 1), occasionally by sexual fantasies, or by various combinations of these agencies

Examples of masturbation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Sherman also suggests making a masturbation self-care routine that works for you. Dominique Fluker, Essence, 15 May 2024 Nonetheless, it was called the Mitsubishi Montero in Spanish-speaking countries because Pajero is a Spanish slang word for masturbation. James Raia, The Mercury News, 12 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for masturbation 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'masturbation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of masturbation was in 1603

Dictionary Entries Near masturbation

Cite this Entry

“Masturbation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masturbation. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

masturbation

noun
mas·​tur·​ba·​tion ˌmas-tər-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce masturbation (audio)
: sexual stimulation of especially one's own genital organs by bodily contact apart from sexual intercourse and usually by use of the hand
masturbate
ˈmas-tər-ˌbāt
verb

Medical Definition

masturbation

noun
mas·​tur·​ba·​tion ˌmas-tər-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce masturbation (audio)
: erotic stimulation especially of one's own genital organs commonly resulting in orgasm and achieved by manual or other bodily contact exclusive of sexual intercourse, by instrumental manipulation, occasionally by sexual fantasies, or by various combinations of these agencies

More from Merriam-Webster on masturbation

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