Definition

This term refers to sexual activity between two people who are not married to each other.

Example

The couple engaged in fornication, which is considered a sin in some cultures.

Conversation

Did you hear what happened at the party last weekend?

Yeah, I heard there was some drama involving a couple.

I think they were caught in a situation of fornication in the living room.

Wow, that's pretty wild! I can't imagine how awkward that must have been.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fornication → It is formed from "fornicari" (meaning to have sexual intercourse) which is derived from "fornix" (meaning arch or vault). The term originally referred to sexual relations that took place under arches or in brothels, hence the modern meaning of illicit sexual activity.

Memory Tip

Imagine the idea of sexual relations happening under an 'arch' ('fornix') — this helps you remember that 'fornication' refers to illicit sexual activity.

Visually Confused Words