Sexual intercourse or coitus or copulation is sexual activity typically involving the insertion and thrusting of the penis into the vagina for sexual pleasure , reproduction , or both. There are different views on what constitutes sexual intercourse or other sexual activity , which can impact on views on sexual health. Various jurisdictions place restrictions on certain sexual acts, such as incest , sexual activity with minors , prostitution , rape , zoophilia , sodomy , premarital and extramarital sex. Religious beliefs also play a role in personal decisions about sexual intercourse or other sexual activity, such as decisions about virginity , [13] [14] or legal and public policy matters. Religious views on sexuality vary significantly between different religions and sects of the same religion, though there are common themes, such as prohibition of adultery.

See more words from the same year. Accessed 21 Mar. More Definitions for sexual intercourse. See the full definition for sexual intercourse in the English Language Learners Dictionary.

Sexual intercourse , also called coitus or copulation , reproductive act in which the male reproductive organ in humans and other higher animals enters the female reproductive tract. In some vertebrates, such as fish , eggs are laid outside of the body and fertilized externally. To accomplish internal copulation, certain body and organic adaptations are necessary. In the human male, the penis serves both excretory and reproductive functions.