sexy

Sexy is an English adjective describing something that evokes sexual attraction or erotic appeal. It can be used to refer to a person’s appearance, clothing, styling, or demeanor, as well as to objects or ideas perceived as alluring. The sense is subjective and strongly context-dependent; what one person finds sexy may not be to others, and social and cultural norms shape judgments of sexiness. The term is distinct from general attractiveness in that it carries sexual connotations and tends to imply desirability for sexual engagement rather than merely aesthetic appeal.

Etymology: The word arises from 'sex' with the -y suffix and entered English in the 20th century as slang, becoming more mainstream by the mid-20th century. In modern usage, 'sexy' appears in advertising, entertainment, fashion, and dating contexts to signal sexual desirability or excitement. It is used across genders but is often gendered in practice and has been the subject of debates about objectification, consent, and beauty standards. Some scholars discuss 'sexy' as a social construct that reflects power relations, media representation, and cultural norms rather than a fixed physical attribute. Critics argue that excessive emphasis on sex appeal can reinforce narrow body ideals, while supporters argue it can empower individuals to express confidence and agency when it is expressed ethically and consensually.