erection

noun

erec·​tion i-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce erection (audio)
1
a
: the state marked by firm turgid form and erect or elevated position of a previously flaccid bodily part containing cavernous tissue when that tissue becomes dilated with blood
b
: an occurrence of such a state in the penis or clitoris
2
: the act or process of erecting something : construction
3
: something erected

Examples of erection in a Sentence

the erection of a new apartment building when it was brand-new, the Eiffel Tower was considered as ugly an erection as Europe had ever seen
Recent Examples on the Web Some of the animals known to engage in masturbation include: Horses Male horses, donkeys, zebras, and deer are often observed having spontaneous erections and then repeatedly slapping, bouncing, and pressing their penises against their own abdomens in the hopes of reaching an orgasm. Sofia Quaglia, Discover Magazine, 18 Dec. 2023 One of the key components of this supplement is its best price generic Viagra that helps men achieve longer and harder erections. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2023 With the growing number of men experiencing erectile dysfunction, the availability of natural supplements that help maintain healthy erections is becoming increasingly important. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 26 Oct. 2023 Horny goat weed works by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down nitric oxide in the body, thus promoting blood flow to the genital area and inducing stronger and longer-lasting erections. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2023 Some people also experience vision problems or prolonged erections. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 19 Sep. 2023 However, those with big erections might want to think twice. Amanda Chatel, Glamour, 5 Sep. 2023 Of course, Johnson’s ambitions are far grander than a mild improvement in his erections: all his efforts are aimed at reattaining the organs equivalent to those of an 18-year-old. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 30 Aug. 2023 Penile fractures usually require surgery, and waiting too long can put you at risk for future difficulty getting erections. Julie Stewart, Men's Health, 21 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'erection.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of erection was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near erection

Cite this Entry

“Erection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/erection. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

erection

noun
erec·​tion i-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce erection (audio)
1
: the process of erecting : the state of being erected
2
a
: the state marked by firm swollen form and erect position of a previously limp or flabby bodily part whose tissue becomes dilated with blood
b
: an occurrence of such a state (as in the penis)
3
: something erected

Medical Definition

erection

noun
erec·​tion i-ˈrek-shən How to pronounce erection (audio)
1
: the state marked by firm turgid form and erect or elevated position of a previously flaccid bodily part containing cavernous tissue when that tissue becomes dilated with blood
2
: an occurrence of erection in the penis or clitoris

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