missionary position

noun

: a coital position in which the female lies on her back with the male on top and with his face opposite hers

Examples of missionary position in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The ever-reliable missionary position, which caused 25% of the injuries. Natalie Gil, refinery29.com, 27 July 2023 The missionary position no longer works for them — David has put on weight and would be too heavy. New York Times, 12 Jan. 2022 Many women with endometriosis find the missionary position painful, so that might be one to avoid. Claire Gillespie, Health.com, 6 May 2021

Word History

Etymology

from the name given to the position by Trobriand islanders

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of missionary position was in 1948

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Missionary position.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/missionary%20position. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

missionary position

noun
mis·​sion·​ary position ˈmish-ə-ˌner-ē-ˌ How to pronounce missionary position (audio)
: a coital position in which the female lies on her back with the male on top and with his face opposite hers
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