sex on legs: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘sex on legs’ mean?

The idiom sex on legs is used to describe someone who is extremely attractive and appealing in a sexual way, often referring to their physical appearance or demeanor.

Idiom Explorer

Unraveling the Seductive Riddle

Sex on legs is an idiom that is widely used in colloquial English. It is a phrase that is typically used to describe someone who is extremely attractive or sexually appealing. The exact origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century.

This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts such as casual conversations, social media, and entertainment media. It is often used to express admiration or desire for someone's physical appearance. In other words, when someone is described as "sex on legs," they are seen as a good looker.

The phrase implies that the person being described is so physically attractive that they are literally like a walking embodiment of sex. They exude an alluring and vibrant presence that captivates others.

While the idiom "sex on legs" is popular and frequently used, it is important to note that it is considered quite informal and slangy. It is not typically used in formal or professional settings, as it may be seen as inappropriate or offensive. However, in more casual conversations or among friends, it can be used as a playful compliment to someone's appearance.

When we talk about "sexing up" something, we mean to make it more exciting, appealing, or interesting. It is the act of adding a touch of intrigue or allure to make something more attractive to others. Just as a person who is considered "sex on legs" is extremely appealing, when we "sex up" a product or an idea, we make it more eye-catching or enticing.

The idiom "open one's legs" is a more explicit and offensive phrase that refers to the act of engaging in sexual activity. This phrase is derogatory and objectifying towards women, reducing them to mere objects of desire. It is important to avoid using this phrase as it devalues and objectifies individuals.

She exuded a captivating and seductive allure.

Returning to the idiom "sex on legs," it is worth noting that it places a strong emphasis on physical appearance and attractiveness. When someone is described as "sex on legs," the focus is primarily on their alluring presence and seductive charm.

A person who is labeled as "sex on legs" is not just good looking, but exudes a captivating and seductive allure. Their physical beauty and charismatic presence make them stand out in a crowd. They possess a glamorous and provocative charm that draws people in.

The phrase "sex on legs" creates a powerful visual metaphor, evoking the idea of someone who is so physically appealing that their mere presence is erotically charged. They are not just good looking, but their attractiveness is so intense that it commands attention and interest.

It is important to recognize that the idiom "sex on legs" is an exaggerated expression of admiration or desire for someone's physical beauty. It is a way to convey intense attraction and appeal, but it is not meant to be taken literally.

The use of this idiom also highlights the importance of visual imagery in human attraction. When someone is described as "sex on legs," it emphasizes the power of physical allure and how it can be incredibly captivating and seductive.

Overall, "sex on legs" is an idiom that is widely used in colloquial English to describe someone who is extremely attractive or sexually appealing. It is an informal and slangy phrase that creates a vivid visual metaphor. While the exact origin of this idiom is uncertain, it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century.

Although it is commonly used in informal contexts, it is important to use this idiom with caution, as it may be seen as inappropriate in formal or professional settings. The phrase is a hyperbolic expression of admiration or desire for someone's physical beauty, focusing solely on their appearance.

Through its use, the idiom "sex on legs" captures the intensity of human attraction and the power of visual imagery. It highlights the allure, desirability, and captivating nature of someone who is extremely attractive. So, the next time you hear someone being described as "sex on legs," you'll know exactly what they mean - a good looker who exudes charisma and a seductive allure.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "sex on legs" can be used in a sentence:

  1. She walked into the room wearing a red dress and immediately became sex on legs.
  2. He's so attractive and charismatic, he's like sex on legs.
  3. That singer's performance was incredible; she was pure sex on legs.

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