Sex Education Glossary: 40 Terms Explained Simply

Sex education has its own vocabulary. This glossary explains the most common terms in plain, judgment-free language, with links to our in-depth guides where you can learn more.

Aftercare

The care and closeness partners give each other after sex: cuddling, checking in, water, comfort.

Arousal

The body's and mind's response to sexual stimulation, including increased blood flow, lubrication or erection and heightened sensitivity.

Asexuality

A sexual orientation in which a person experiences little or no sexual attraction.

Body-safe materials

Non-porous materials for sex toys, such as medical-grade silicone, glass and stainless steel, that can be fully cleaned.

Clitoris

The female organ dedicated to pleasure, with thousands of nerve endings. Most of it lies under the surface; the visible part is the glans.

Consent

A clear, freely given and ongoing agreement to sexual activity, which can be withdrawn at any time.

Cowgirl

A position in which the receiving partner is on top, controlling angle, depth and pace.

Desire discrepancy

When partners want sex at different frequencies. Very common and manageable with communication.

Dental dam

A thin latex or polyurethane sheet used during oral sex on the vulva or anus to reduce STI risk.

Dirty talk

Using words to express desire and arousal during or before sex.

Edging

Bringing yourself or a partner close to orgasm, pausing, and repeating, to build control and intensity.

Erogenous zones

Areas of the body that are especially sensitive to sexual touch, such as the neck, nipples, inner thighs and genitals.

Foreplay

Touching, kissing and other activities that build arousal before or instead of intercourse.

Frenulum

The sensitive band of tissue on the underside of the penis, just below the head.

G-spot

An area on the front wall of the vagina that some people find especially pleasurable when stimulated.

Kegel exercises

Exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can support bladder control and orgasm.

Libido

Sexual desire or sex drive, which naturally varies over time and between people.

Lingam

A Sanskrit word for the penis, used in tantric practice.

Lingam massage

A slow, sensual tantric massage of the penis and surrounding area focused on relaxation and connection.

Lubricant

A gel or liquid that reduces friction. Water-based, silicone-based and oil-based types have different uses.

Masturbation

Sexual self-touch for pleasure, a healthy way to learn what you enjoy.

Mindful sex

Sex with full attention on sensations and the present moment rather than on performance.

Multiple orgasms

Having more than one orgasm in a single session, either in quick succession or with short breaks.

Open relationship

A relationship in which partners agree that one or both may have other sexual or romantic connections.

Orgasm

The peak of sexual pleasure, involving rhythmic muscle contractions and a release of tension.

Pelvic floor

The group of muscles supporting the bladder, bowel and sexual organs, involved in orgasm.

Perineum

The area between the genitals and the anus, sensitive for many people.

Performance anxiety

Worry about sexual performance that can interfere with arousal, erection or orgasm.

Premature ejaculation

Ejaculating sooner than a person or their partner would like, usually within about a minute of penetration, often enough to cause distress.

Prostate

A gland below the bladder in people with a penis that can be a source of intense pleasure when stimulated.

Refractory period

The recovery time after orgasm before a person can become aroused or orgasm again.

Safe word

An agreed word that immediately stops sexual play, especially in kink or BDSM.

Sensate focus

Structured touch exercises developed by Masters and Johnson to reduce pressure and rediscover pleasure.

Sex positive

An attitude that treats consensual sexuality as a healthy, natural part of life, free of shame.

Sexting

Sending sexual messages, and sometimes images, by phone or online, ideally only with consent and trust.

Squeeze technique

Gently squeezing the head of the penis when close to orgasm to delay ejaculation.

STI

Sexually transmitted infection. Condoms, dental dams and regular testing reduce risk.

Tantra

An ancient spiritual tradition; in modern sex education, a slow, mindful, breath-focused approach to intimacy.

Vulva

The external female genitals, including the labia, clitoris and vaginal opening.

Yab-yum

A seated tantric position in which partners face each other chest to chest, often used for breathing and connection.

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