adjective
effeminate
ih-FEM-uh-nut/ɪˈfemɪnət/
Having traits stereotypically associated with women, especially in a man.
The man's traditionally feminine presentation is sometimes described as effeminate.
Etymology
The “woman” root underlies a Latin verb meaning “make a woman of.” The adjective applies that idea to qualities conventionally labeled feminine, especially in men, and is generally reproachful.
In context
30 percent men are becoming more and more effeminate they're eating more and more soy don't eat soy soy increases estrogen
More examples
- The memoir describes being mocked as effeminate for enjoying dance.
- The costume challenged conventional ideas of what looked effeminate.
- His classmates called his gentle voice effeminate, revealing their narrow expectations.
Forms
effeminate · more effeminate · most effeminate
Similar words
- feminine
- Feminine can neutrally describe traits culturally associated with women; effeminate often judges a man through gender stereotypes.
- androgynous
- Androgynous combines or blurs gendered traits; effeminate specifically invokes stereotypically feminine traits.