Sexier

/ˈsɛksiər/ adjective

Definition

More attractive, appealing, or exciting in a way that suggests sensuality or desirability.

Etymology

From 'sexy,' which combined 'sex' (from Latin 'sexus' meaning gender/biological difference) with the '-y' suffix in 1920s slang. 'Sexier' is the comparative form.

Kelly Says

The word 'sexy' didn't exist before the 1920s—before that, languages just didn't have a casual everyday word for physical attractiveness, showing how slang creates concepts society decides it needs.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Comparative form of 'sexy,' a term historically applied with asymmetry: women's sexiness is evaluated constantly and unsolicited; men's sexiness is context-dependent. Creates gendered dynamic of who is subject to appearance evaluation.

Inclusive Usage

Use for all genders or avoid in professional/formal contexts. Be aware of asymmetrical application patterns.

Inclusive Alternatives

["more attractive","more appealing"]

Related Words

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