Phallus - Definition and Overview

The phallus usually refers to the male penis, or sex organ. The word may also refer to a type of fungi having the cap hanging free around the stem. Any object that visually resembles a penis may be referred to as a "phallus", however, such objects are more correctly refered to as being "phallic."

In physical anatomy

The phallus refers to the male penis or, more rarely, the clitoris of a female; particularly during fetal development before sexual differentiation is evident.

In art

Ancient sculptures of phalli have been found in many parts of the world, notably among the vestiges of ancient Greece & Rome; it is also common in India where the phallus (i.e. lingam) is a symbol of Shiva.

In psychology

The symbolic version of the phallus, a phallic symbol is meant to represent male generative powers. According to the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud, males possess a penis, but no one can possess the symbolic phallus.

Sociopolitical useages

In cultural terms, phallocentrism is used to describe a male-centered doctrine or behavior, and sometimes refers to patriarchy. The term gynocentrism is sometimes used to describe female-centered doctrine or behavior, and sometimes refers to matriarchy.