homosexuality

UK: ˌhəʊ.məʊ.sek.ʃuˈæl.ə.ti | US: ˌhoʊ.moʊ.sek.ʃuˈæl.ə.t̬i

Definition

  1. n. sexual attraction or romantic feelings toward members of the same sex or gender.

Structure
homo <same>sexual <relating to sex>ity <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "homosexuality" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Homo-" derives from Greek homos (ὁμός), meaning "same."
  2. "Sexual" comes from Latin sexualis, relating to sexus (biological distinction).
  3. "-ity" is a noun-forming suffix from Latin -itas, indicating a state or condition.
    The term was coined in 19th-century German (Homosexualität) by Karl-Maria Kertbeny, blending Greek and Latin roots to describe same-sex attraction scientifically. It replaced earlier pejorative terms like "sodomy," reflecting a shift toward medical and psychological discourse.
Examples

  1. The study explores societal attitudes toward homosexuality in different cultures.

  2. Laws criminalizing homosexuality were repealed in many countries during the 20th century.

  3. He wrote a memoir about his experiences with homosexuality in the 1980s.

  4. Some religious groups still condemn homosexuality on doctrinal grounds.

  5. The documentary highlights the history of the homosexuality rights movement.