foreplay

Definition

The acts at the beginning of a (usually human) sexual encounter that serve to build up sexual arousal.

Etymology

From fore- + play.

Example Sentences

• "Actually in quick undressing or actual lovemaking modern nylons usually get ruined, but if you keep your nails and fingers smooth taking them off gently makes good foreplay, along with mutual undressing generally."
• "Root (Amy Acker): Hey, sweetie, you busy? / Sameen Shaw (Sarah Shahi): A little. Skip the verbal foreplay, Root. Why you calling? / Root: Can't a couple of gals take a little break from work to catch up?"