Demisexual describes a person who only feels sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional bond with someone.
Demisexual is a sexual orientation on the asexual spectrum. A demisexual person does not experience sexual attraction based on looks or first impressions, and instead needs a deep emotional connection before attraction can develop.
This does not mean demisexual people are simply choosing to wait. The attraction itself is absent until closeness and trust are built, which sets the orientation apart from someone who just prefers to know a partner first.
Demisexuality sits between allosexual, where attraction comes easily, and asexual, where little or no sexual attraction is felt. Many demisexual people form their strongest attractions within close friendships.
Recognizing the term can be a relief for those who never related to instant chemistry and wondered why. It gives language to a common but rarely discussed experience.