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coitus

n. an act of sexual union, usually the insertion of the penis into the vagina followed by ejaculation. Variations include, among others, coitus a tergo, in which the penis is inserted from the rear, and coitus inter femora (interfemoral sex), in which the penis is inserted between the pressed thighs of the partner. Also called coition; intercourse; sexual intercourse. See also anal intercourse; carezza; copulation. —coital adj.

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Psychology term of the day

November 18th 2024

tendon reflex

tendon reflex

the automatic contraction of a muscle elicited by stretching a tendon. Such reflexes are mediated by tendon stretch detectors, called Golgi tendon organs. An example of a tendon reflex is the patellar reflex, elicited by tapping or stretching the patellar tendon just below the kneecap. Also called deep reflex.