homosexual
UK: ˌhəʊ.məˈsek.ʃu.əl | US: ˌhoʊ.məˈsek.ʃu.əl
adj. relating to or characterized by sexual or romantic attraction between people of the same sex.
n. a person who is sexually or romantically attracted to people of the same sex.
The word "homosexual" combines the Greek prefix homo- (meaning "same") with the Latin-derived root sexual (relating to biological sex or gender). Coined in the late 19th century by German psychologist Karl-Maria Kertbeny, it was introduced to medical literature as a neutral term to describe same-sex attraction. The Greek homo- distinguishes it from hetero- (different), creating a parallel structure (e.g., heterosexual). Over time, the term evolved from clinical usage to broader social and identity contexts.
The study examined societal attitudes toward homosexual relationships.
He came out as homosexual during his college years.
Laws protecting homosexual workers from discrimination were passed in 2020.
Some cultures historically recognized homosexual partnerships.
The film portrays a homosexual couple raising a child.