heterosexual
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌhɛt.ə.roʊˈsɛk.ʃu.əl/
KK: /hɛtəroʊˈsɛkʃuəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or attracted to people of the opposite sex.
Example
He identifies as heterosexual and is attracted to women.
Conversation
Did you notice how many heterosexual couples were at the park yesterday?
Yeah, it was packed! They seemed to really enjoy the sunny weather.
I wonder if it's always that busy on weekends with heterosexual families out and about.
Probably! Everyone loves a nice day for a picnic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
opposite
straight
binary
Antonyms
homosexual
bisexual
queer
noun
Definition
A person who is attracted to people of the opposite sex.
Example
She identifies as a heterosexual and is attracted to men.
Conversation
I met someone interesting at the party last night.
Oh really? What were they like?
They mentioned they identify as heterosexual and are really into hiking.
Root Explanation
Heterosexual → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "sexual" (from Latin "sexualis", meaning of or pertaining to sex). The word describes a sexual orientation characterized by attraction to individuals of the opposite sex.
Memory Tip
Think of 'different' ('hetero-') when remembering that 'heterosexual' refers to attraction between opposite sexes.
Visually Confused Words
urethrosexual