The birds and the bees

usgb
phrase

A euphemistic way to refer to the basic facts about sex and reproduction.

When he turned thirteen, his father explained the birds and the bees to him.
Visual representation of "the birds and the bees" - A euphemistic way to refer to the basic facts about sex and reproduction.

Often appears as...

  • explain the birds and the bees
  • talk about the birds and the bees

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the birds and the bees"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Age Appropriate

Used when discussing reproduction with young people in an indirect way.

Illustration for Age Appropriate
Her mother thought she was old enough to hear about the birds and the bees.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Sensitive Topic

It's a delicate subject that needs to be approached with care.

Illustration for Sensitive Topic
He stumbled as he tried to explain the birds and the bees.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Parent-Child Talk

Often used when parents explain reproduction to their children.

Illustration for Parent-Child Talk
Dad said it's time we had a talk about the birds and the bees.
Visual representation of the word "The birds and the bees"

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