Sexuals

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. Referring to individuals who engage in a particular form of sexual behavior or identity
  2. relating to interests or activities specifically tied to sexual attraction or orientation
  3. encompassing various aspects of sexuality in terms of preference or expression

Etymology: The noun form in question is the plural of "sexual," which emerged in English around the late 19th century as the study of human biology and behavior began to develop more precise language around reproduction and identity. Originally, "sexual" derived from the Latin "sexualis," relating to sex or gender, itself rooted in "sexus," meaning the division of living beings into male and female categories. This Latin root reached English through scientific and philosophical discourse, particularly as biology and medicine advanced. The singular "sexual" began as an adjective describing anything pertaining to sex or the biological differences between males and females. By the early 20th century, it also took on a noun form, referring to a person characterized by their sexual nature or orientation, though this usage remained relatively rare and specialized compared to the adjective. The plural form "sexuals" came to be used primarily in sociological, psychological, and sometimes subcultural contexts, referring collectively to people defined by their sexual identities or behaviors. For example, in early sexology, groups might be described by their sexual characteristics or preferences, and "sexuals" was a shorthand for such populations. Unlike words like "homosexuals" or "asexuals," which denote specific sexual orientations, "sexuals" is more general, often implying individuals who are sexually active or defined by their sexuality. Its usage remains somewhat formal or clinical, and it is less common in everyday conversation, where other terms have supplanted it. The term carries with it a history tied to the scientific attempts to categorize human sexuality, reflecting changing understandings of identity and behavior over the last century and more.

Synonyms: individuals, persons, people, beings