: a coital position in which the female lies on her back with the male on top and with his face opposite hers
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebThe 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 Who said the missionary position is only for straight couples? Sophie Saint Thomas, refinery29.com, 20 June 2019
Word History
Etymology
from the name given to the position by Trobriand islanders
First Known Use
1948, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
missionary position
noun
mis·sion·ary position ˈmish-ə-ˌner-ē-ˌ
: a coital position in which the female lies on her back with the male on top and with his face opposite hers