intercourse
UK/'intәkɒ:s/US
B2
Definitions
n.
Communication or dealings between people or groups
交往，交流
n.
Physical sexual contact (sexual intercourse)
性交
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedinter- (between) + course (running) = a 'running between' parties — exchange and communication. The older general sense (social/commercial intercourse) is now overshadowed by the sexual sense in everyday English. course is the cursus variant of car.
Root car still carries 96 more wordsUsage Guide
Caution: 'intercourse' alone now most often means the sexual sense in everyday English. Use 'communication,' 'dealings,' or 'interaction' for the neutral 'exchange' meaning to avoid awkwardness.
Example Sentences
- 1.
There was little social intercourse between the two villages.
- 2.
The report discusses commercial intercourse between nations.