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Masturbation: meaning, definitions and examples

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masturbation

 

[ ˌmæstəˈbeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

sexual activity

Masturbation is the act of stimulating one's own genitals for sexual pleasure, often to the point of orgasm. It is considered a common and natural behavior, found in both males and females. Although often viewed as a private activity, masturbation can also be part of a healthy sexual lifestyle. It has been the subject of various cultural, religious, and personal opinions, with some viewing it as taboo and others considering it a normal part of human sexuality.

Synonyms

onanism, self-pleasure, self-stimulation

Examples of usage

  • Many people engage in masturbation as a form of sexual self-exploration.
  • Masturbation is often discussed in the context of sexual health.
  • Teachers may address masturbation during sex education classes.
  • Some studies suggest that masturbation has health benefits.

Translations

Translations of the word "masturbation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 masturbação

🇮🇳 हस्तमैथुन

🇩🇪 Masturbation

🇮🇩 masturbasi

🇺🇦 мастурбація

🇵🇱 masturbacja

🇯🇵 自慰行為

🇫🇷 masturbation

🇪🇸 masturbación

🇹🇷 mastürbasyon

🇰🇷 자위

🇸🇦 استمناء

🇨🇿 masturbace

🇸🇰 masturbácia

🇨🇳 自慰

🇸🇮 masturbacija

🇮🇸 sjálfsfróun

🇰🇿 мастурбация

🇬🇪 მასტურბაცია

🇦🇿 mastürbasiya

🇲🇽 masturbación

Etymology

The word 'masturbation' originates from the Latin word 'masturbari', which itself comes from 'manus' meaning 'hand' and 'stupare', a term that means 'to defile'. The origins of the word reflect the act of using one's hand for sexual stimulation, a common form of this behavior. The usage of the term has evolved over the centuries, with varying degrees of acceptance and cultural significance. During the 19th century, masturbation was often considered shameful and was falsely associated with various health issues. In modern times, societal attitudes have shifted, and it is generally accepted as a normal part of human sexuality, although discussions surrounding it still evoke diverse reactions based on cultural or personal beliefs.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,334, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.