Graysexual - meaning and definition
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Definition
Describes a person on the asexual spectrum who experiences sexual attraction rarely, weakly or only in particular circumstances.
At a glance
- Part of the asexual spectrum.
- Describes sexual attraction that is rare, faint or depends on circumstances.
- Also used by people unsure whether what they feel counts as sexual attraction.
- Often written gray-ace, grey-ace or gray-A.
In detail
Graysexual people sit in the "gray area" between asexual and allosexual. They may feel sexual attraction occasionally, feel it without much wish to act on it, or be unsure whether what they feel counts as sexual attraction.
The label gives words to an experience that neither "asexual" nor "not asexual" captures well.
In a sentence
- I'm graysexual, so attraction does happen for me, just very rarely.
- She put grey-ace on her profile so matches would know what to expect.
Where the word comes from
Named after the gray area between asexual and allosexual. The term developed in online asexual communities in the 2000s.
Common questions
What is the difference between graysexual and demisexual?
Demisexual people feel sexual attraction only after a close emotional bond forms. Graysexual is broader and describes attraction that is rare, weak or circumstantial for any reason. Some people consider demisexual a kind of gray identity.
Is grey or gray correct?
Both spellings are used, often following British or American spelling. They mean the same thing.