Oldest Roots:
* Latin "sexus": The word "sex" directly comes from the Latin word "sexus," which meant "gender" or "sex." It was used in a broader sense than our modern usage, encompassing both biological sex and social gender roles.
Medieval and Early Modern Usage:
* Shifting Meaning: Over time, the meaning of "sexus" narrowed in English, becoming more specifically associated with biological sex. This shift occurred during the Middle Ages and early modern period.
* "Sex" as a Noun: The use of "sex" as a noun to describe the act of sexual intercourse emerged in the 16th century.
Modern Usage:
* Scientific and Social Context: The modern use of "sex" encompasses both the biological distinction between male and female and the act of sexual intercourse.
* Evolution of Terminology: Over time, other terms like "gender" have emerged to address the social and cultural aspects of sexuality that are distinct from biological sex.
It's important to remember that language evolves. The way we understand and talk about sex has changed significantly throughout history, reflecting societal shifts in attitudes and knowledge.