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sexual orientation

[sek-shoo-uhl awr-ee-uhn-tey-shuhn, ‐en‐] / ˈsɛk ʃu əl ˌɔr i ənˈteɪ ʃən, ‐ɛn‐ /
NOUN
preference of sexual partner
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A PPS spokesperson said it worked with other organisations across the justice system "to ensure that hostility based on race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability is confronted wherever it arises".

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Almost 30 states have curbed or outlawed “therapy” that seeks to change minors’ sexual orientation or gender identity—that is, to make them stop being gay, bisexual, or transgender.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

She said she does not seek to “cure” clients of same-sex attractions or to “change” their sexual orientation.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

As part of his story’s ongoing tragedy, Preston spent much of his life closeted from the reality of his sexual orientation.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

From our much more broadminded twenty-first-century North American viewpoint, it’s important to remember that identifying yourself as male or female doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with your sexual orientation.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein



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