1. Meaning of the Word:
“Homosexual” refers to a person who is attracted to individuals of the same sex. It can also be used to describe feelings, behavior, or relationships that are centered around attraction to people of the same gender.
2. Definitions and Meaning in English:
- Homosexual (adjective): Pertaining to, or characteristic of, sexual attraction to individuals of the same sex.
- Homosexual (noun): A person who experiences sexual attraction primarily to members of the same sex.
3. History and Origin:
The term “homosexual” was coined in the late 19th century, derived from the Greek word homo meaning “same” and the Latin sexualis meaning “pertaining to sex.” The word was first used in psychological and medical literature and gradually became more commonly used in the general population. It has evolved in its social and cultural connotations over time, particularly as societies have become more accepting of diverse sexual orientations.
4. Detailed Explanation:
Homosexuality refers to the sexual orientation in which an individual is primarily attracted to people of the same gender. It is one of the various sexual orientations, alongside heterosexuality (attraction to the opposite sex) and bisexuality (attraction to both sexes). Homosexuality can manifest as emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction, and it is a natural variation of human sexuality. People who identify as homosexual may form relationships, marriages, or partnerships with individuals of the same sex. It is important to note that sexual orientation, including homosexuality, is not a choice but a complex interplay of biological, environmental, and social factors.
5. Example Sentences (9 examples):
- The film portrays the struggles of a young homosexual man coming out to his family.
- Many countries have made significant progress in accepting homosexual relationships and legalizing same-sex marriage.
- Homosexuality is a natural part of human diversity and should be respected as such.
- The scientist conducted a study on the psychological well-being of homosexual individuals.
- She openly identified as homosexual and advocated for equal rights in society.
- The debate over homosexual rights has become a prominent issue in modern politics.
- The community organized a parade to celebrate homosexual pride and visibility.
- His views on homosexual relationships have evolved over time, leading him to become an ally.
- The novel explores the emotional challenges faced by a homosexual character in a conservative society.
6. Synonyms with short explanation (5):
- Gay – A term often used to describe individuals who are attracted to people of the same sex, especially men.
- Lesbian – A woman who is attracted to other women, a specific form of homosexuality.
- Queer – A broader, inclusive term used by some to describe sexual orientations that are not heterosexual, including homosexuality.
- Same-sex attracted – Describes someone who is attracted to individuals of the same sex, an alternative to “homosexual.”
- Homophile – An older term once used to describe someone who is attracted to members of the same sex, now largely replaced by “homosexual” or “gay.”
7. Related Words with short explanation (5):
- Bisexual – A person attracted to both men and women, distinct from homosexual but related to sexual orientation.
- Pansexual – A person who is attracted to people regardless of gender, often related to broader concepts of sexual orientation.
- Sexual orientation – A person’s pattern of romantic or sexual attraction to others, which can be homosexual, heterosexual, or other orientations.
- LGBTQ+ – An acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning, and other sexual identities.
- Coming out – The process by which an individual openly reveals their sexual orientation, often used in the context of homosexuality.
8. More Matches with short explanation (5):
- Same-sex marriage – A legally recognized marriage between two individuals of the same gender.
- Pride – A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and a recognition of the rights of homosexual individuals.
- Ally – A person who supports and advocates for the rights of homosexual individuals, even if they are not homosexual themselves.
- Homophobia – The fear, hatred, or prejudice against people who are homosexual.
- Inclusive – Describing attitudes or policies that embrace and support individuals of diverse sexual orientations, including homosexuality.
9. Antonyms:
- Heterosexual – A person who is attracted to individuals of the opposite sex.
- Straight – A colloquial term for someone who is heterosexual.
- Asexual – A person who does not experience sexual attraction to others, different from homosexual.
- Bisexual – A person attracted to both men and women, as opposed to being exclusively homosexual.
- Pansexual – A person attracted to people regardless of gender, often contrasted with strictly homosexual attraction.