Word for sodomy or buggery, used since 18281. The definition of a "crime against nature" usually includes:

The definition is often broader to include any fellatio, cunnilingus, or anal sex.

Many states2 use the term "Crime against nature" in their statues banning such acts as listed above. Here they are listed, along with the associated penalty:


(1) Merriam-Webster online dictionary http://www.m-w.com/

(2) ACLU http://www.aclu.org/issues/gay/sodomy.html

(3) Yes, I found this very surprising and scary too. I have confirmed it at the Idaho Legislature website: http://www3.state.id.us/cgi-bin/newidst?sctid=180660005.K