Masturbating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ†
Add to dictionary

masturbating

[หŒmรฆstษ™หˆbeษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sexual activity

Masturbating is the act of stimulating one's own genitals for sexual pleasure. It is a common behavior among humans and has been practiced across various cultures throughout history. This activity can serve as a means of sexual release and exploration.

Synonyms

autoeroticism, self-pleasure, self-stimulation.

Examples of usage

  • He enjoys masturbating in the privacy of his room.
  • Many people find that masturbating helps relieve stress.
  • Masturbating can be a healthy part of sexual expression.
  • She read articles about the benefits of masturbating.
  • Masturbating is often discussed in sex education.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'masturbari', which means 'to defile' or 'to pollute', although its meaning has evolved over time.
  • Throughout history, various cultures viewed the practice differently; some celebrated it while others stigmatized it, reflecting societal attitudes toward sexuality.
  • In ancient Egypt, it was considered a natural act, even associated with creation myths, where gods engaged in it to create life.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that self-pleasure can aid in understanding one's body and can improve sexual health.
  • Psychologically, it can reduce stress and anxiety, providing a sense of relaxation and emotional relief.
  • Many mental health experts indicate that it can be a normal part of developing a healthy sexual identity and relationship with one's body.

Health

  • Research indicates that it can have various health benefits, including lower risks of prostate cancer for men and improved sexual function for all genders.
  • Practicing self-pleasure can help individuals learn about their own bodies, making it easier to communicate preferences to partners.
  • It's also linked to releasing endorphins, which can uplift mood and promote overall well-being.

Culture

  • In popular media, the topic is often approached with humor or taboo, reflecting varying societal norms around sexuality.
  • Books and films occasionally feature characters discussing or engaging in it as a way to address human sexuality openly.
  • Different cultures have distinct beliefs about self-pleasure, impacting how individuals within those societies view and discuss the topic.

Education

  • Sex education programs increasingly include discussions on self-pleasure as part of promoting sexual health and awareness.
  • Educational resources often emphasize consent, respect, and understanding oneโ€™s own body alongside discussions about mutual relationships.
  • Many advocate that understanding one's own needs can enhance personal relationships and communication skills in partnerships.

Origin of 'masturbating'

The term 'masturbate' originates from the Latin word 'manu turbare', which means 'to disturb oneself with the hand'. The practice itself, however, has been noted as far back as ancient civilizations. Ancient Egyptians depicted scenes of masturbation in their art, suggesting that it was acknowledged as a form of sexual expression. Throughout history, attitudes towards masturbation have varied greatly across cultures; in some societies it has been viewed negatively, while others have embraced it as a natural part of sexuality. In the 20th century, scientific studies began to dispel myths surrounding the supposed dangers of masturbation, leading to a greater acceptance of the practice in contemporary society.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,204 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.