Definition of heterosexual
1a : of, relating to, or characterized by a tendency to direct sexual desire toward the opposite sexb : of, relating to, or involving sexual intercourse between individuals of opposite sex
2 : of or relating to different sexes
From the M-W Editors
Origin and Etymology of heterosexual
International Scientific Vocabulary
First Known Use: 1892
Other Psychology Terms
heterosexual
Definition of heterosexual
: a heterosexual person
1913
First Known Use of heterosexual
1913
Other Psychology Terms
HETEROSEXUAL Defined for English Language Learners
heterosexual
playDefinition of heterosexual for English Language Learners
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: sexually attracted to people of the opposite sex
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: based on sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex
Medical Dictionary
Medical Definition of heterosexual
1a: of, relating to, or characterized by a tendency to direct sexual desire toward individuals of the opposite sex—compare homosexual 1b: of, relating to, or involving sexual intercourse between a male and a female sexual relationships between individuals of opposite sexes are heterosexual—A. C. Kinsey—compare homosexual 2
2: of or relating to different sexes
heterosexual
Medical Definition of heterosexual
: a heterosexual individual
Learn More about heterosexual
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Spanish Central: Translation of heterosexual Nglish: Translation of heterosexual for Spanish speakers
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