The quality, state, or practice of being erotic; the expression of sexual or romantic desire in art, literature, or behavior.
From erotic + -ism suffix (denoting a practice, state, or characteristic). Used in literary and cultural criticism from the 19th century onward.
Erotism is basically saying 'the erotic quality of something'—it's the noun version that lets critics discuss sexuality in art and literature as a legitimate aesthetic and cultural phenomenon, not just something forbidden.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.