exhibitionism

noun

ex·hi·bi·tion·ism | \ ˌek-sə-ˈbi-shə-ˌni-zəm

Definition of exhibitionism

1a : a perversion in which sexual gratification is obtained from the indecent exposure of one's genitals (as to a stranger)

b : an act of such exposure

2 : the act or practice of behaving so as to attract attention to oneself

Other Words from exhibitionism Example Sentences Learn More About exhibitionism

Other Words from exhibitionism

exhibitionist \ ˌek-sə-ˈbish-nist

, -ˈbi-shə- \ noun or adjective

exhibitionistic \ ˌek-sə-ˌbi-shə-ˈni-stik

\ adjective

exhibitionistically \ ˌek-sə-ˌbi-shə-ˈni-sti-k(ə-)lē

\ adverb

Examples of exhibitionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web If her exhibitionism is something new, then she should be evaluated, first by a doctor who specializes in geriatric patients and, if necessary, referred to one who specializes in geriatric psychiatry. — Abigail Van Buren, oregonlive, 3 Aug. 2022 His eagerness to speak and theirs to listen created a vortex of exhibitionism and voyeurism that sucked in millions of viewers in the pandemic’s early weeks. — Molly Fischer, The New Yorker, 13 June 2022 Throughout his career, the superstar has been subject to plenty of attention for his exhibitionism and showmanship as an openly LGBTQ entertainer. — Stephen Daw, Billboard, 11 Apr. 2022 How pitifully unprepared poor Mike is for the world — of exhibitionism, prostitution, alcohol, and drugs — in which his brother thrived. — Michael Washburn, National Review, 24 Oct. 2021 This is supposed to be the season of unleashed, exuberant exhibitionism. — Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 18 June 2021 Most scat singing over the past 50 years has been rote exhibitionism, a cheap thrill that puts hip listeners to sleep. — Will Friedwald, WSJ, 16 Mar. 2021 As biologists have understood since Charles Darwin, such exhibitionism evolves when females choose to mate with males that have the most extravagant appearances and displays—a proxy for fitness. — Elizabeth Pennisi, Science | AAAS, 3 Mar. 2021 While taking black American social conditions as his subject, his movies are primarily about his out-of-the-closet exhibitionism. — Armond White, National Review, 3 Mar. 2021 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'exhibitionism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.