The word “sexy” is defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary as being both “sexually suggestive or stimulating” and “generally attractive or interesting.” The fact that the “go to” book of definitions can define such a small word in two, in my opinion, vastly different ways is fascinating. It also helps to explain why few people are in agreement as to how and when this word should be applied to describe others.

Years ago, a sexy woman was a curvaceous size 16 with a pretty smile and a clear complexion. Nowadays, as society now widely believes that a sexy woman is a size 0, this same woman is seen as overweight and matronly. Though it was once sexy for a man to be “tall, dark and handsome” we now are finding that sensitive, well-groomed men with killer closets are getting the girls. While it’s more distressing that women are having to starve themselves to be considered sexy than it is that rugged men are having to wax for a date both new trends give one pause.

Personally, my definition of the word “sexy” has barely changed since I first heard it. For me, I’ve always defined the word more in terms of the “generally attractive or interesting” part than the “sexually suggestive or stimulating” side. In my opinion, in order to be truly sexy, you need to have something to offer regardless of what you’re wearing or what work you’ve had done. To me, a sexy person is someone with equal amounts of intelligence and humor. They are secure in who they are and feel no need to announce it or criticize others for not being at that point yet. They are interested in making the world a better place if only by not adding to the problem. You can take them anywhere because they have been instilled with the manners to act properly and the common sense and decency to bow out if they don’t. They may not share in the same political or social views that you do, but they will never force you to change your opinion or go on and on about why they are right. In general, they are a good and honest person who you can depend on to do right by you even when you are miles away. We all strive to be this person and pray to end up with someone who fits this definition. Physically they may not fit the description of a sexy person. Their muscles may be pea-sized and they may not wear clothes small enough to fit a Barbie doll. Still, they are incredibly sexy.

Considering how much the definition of “sexy” has changed since my mother’s generation, I worry how much more it’ll change when defined by the next generation. Will we even recognize a sexy person then? Or will they be too paper-thin for anyone with failing eyesight to see? I suppose only time will tell, but you know what I'm hoping for.