What Is Heterosexual ?

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Heterosexual people are sexually or romantically attracted to people of the opposite sex. Heterosexual men are sexually or romantically attracted to women, and heterosexual women are sexually or romantically attracted to men.

The prefix “hetero” comes from the Greek word heteros, which means “the other (of two), another, different, second; other than usual.”

Other Names for Heterosexual and Related Terms
People often use the term “straight” in place of the word heterosexual.

You might also hear these related terms:

Heteronormative. This is a world view that promotes heterosexuality as the norm or preferred orientation over others.

Heteroromantic. This is when you’re romantically attracted to only the opposite sex.

Heterosexual ally. This is a heterosexual person who supports people with other sexual orientations.

What Is the Difference Between Heterosexual, Homosexual, and Other Sexualities?
While heterosexuality is the most common sexual identity, it’s just one of many possible sexual orientations. In addition to heterosexuality, which describes people who are sexually or romantically attracted to the opposite sex, you may hear these terms.

Homosexual, same-sex attraction
Bisexual, attraction to more than one sex
Asexual, no sexual attraction to any sex
Aromantic, no romantic attraction to any sex
Polysexual, attraction to people of various genders
Heteroflexible, primary attraction to people of the opposite sex and occasional attraction to people of the same sex
Homoflexible, primary attraction to people of the same sex and occasional attraction to people of the opposite sex
These are just a few of the many terms used to describe various sexual identities. Despite the large number of individuals that identify as heterosexual, it’s important to respect any individual’s sexual orientation and the label they choose. For example, some people may mainly identify as heterosexual, but their sexual identity may change over time.