Asexualisation

/eɪˌsɛkʃuəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The British spelling of the process of becoming asexual or of removing sexual characteristics from someone or something.

Etymology

From asexual + -isation (British variant of -ization), using the -s- spelling preference standard in British English since the 18th century.

Kelly Says

British English keeps the 's' in asexualisation while American English drops it to asexualization—it's one of those spelling differences that confuses students but reflects how the two language variants diverged.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Asexualization historically referred to forced surgical sterilization, disproportionately applied to women with disabilities and women of color. The term carries trauma from eugenics programs and reproductive coercion.

Inclusive Usage

Use clinical precision when discussing asexuality as identity vs. historical forced medical procedures. Distinguish between consensual asexual identity and non-consensual medical violence.

Inclusive Alternatives

["forced sterilization","reproductive coercion","asexual identity"]

Empowerment Note

Disability rights and reproductive justice advocates, particularly women of color, have reclaimed narratives of resistance against forced asexualization. Modern asexual community has reclaimed 'asexuality' as a positive identity.

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