I often comment on the use of trendy words since a trend in language is about as good as a trend in fashion–if you’re not aware of when the trend fades, you’re left looking outdated. The word metrosexual, though, has most likely been around long enough now to not be considered a trend–I’m afraid that it might be here to stay, so let’s take a look at the word and see whether the word makes sense.
Heterosexual means a person who is sexually attracted to the opposite sex, and homosexual means a person who is sexually attracted to the same sex. It only makes sense, then, that metrosexual would mean a person who is sexually attracted to metros, which seems to be short for metropolitan areas. Yes, that makes complete sense–many people are sexually attracted to cities. Perhaps it’s that the high rises are a phallic symbol. I’m no Sigmund Freud.
Metrosexual, according to Webster’s New Millennium Dictionary, actually means a heterosexual male who has a strong aesthetic sense and inordinate interest in appearance and style, similar to that of homosexual males. Oh, I guess that’s supposed to make more sense. Any man who lives in a city and cares about himself is deserving of being labeled—labeled with a word that promotes stereotyping members of the homosexual community.
–Paul
Paul’s book–Literally, the Best Language Book Ever
Everything Language and Grammar 