eroticism

noun

erot·​i·​cism i-ˈrä-tə-ˌsi-zəm 

1

: an erotic theme or quality

2

: a state of sexual arousal

3

: insistent sexual impulse or desire

eroticist

i-ˈrä-tə-sist 

noun

Synonyms

• ardor
• concupiscence
• eros
• horniness
• itch
• lust
• lustfulness
• passion

Examples of eroticism in a Sentence

the subtle eroticism of his films

an actress known for her smoldering eroticism

Recent Examples on the Web

Sometimes Greek authors wrote in the mode of pure eroticism, sometimes in terms of profound emotion, and sometimes in the simple sense of lust. —Sarah Nooter / Made By History, TIME, 9 Sep. 2024

In an industry that’s still dominated by men, female directors tackling eroticism in unconventional ways are, however, still facing challenges. —Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 6 Sep. 2024

In one painting, a woman floats in the Huangpu River along Shanghai’s skyscrapers; here, eroticism and construction meet in a surreal scenario. —Ann Binlot, ARTnews.com, 5 Sep. 2024

Had discussing diarrhoea and constipation over dinner sullied the intrigue and mystery of eroticism? —Jess Commons, refinery29.com, 4 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

eroticism

noun

erot·​i·​cism i-ˈrät-ə-ˌsiz-əm 

1

: the arousal of or the attempt to arouse sexual feeling by means of suggestion, symbolism, or allusion (as in an art form)

2

: a state of sexual arousal or anticipation (as from stimulation of erogenous zones)

3

: insistent sexual impulse or desire