adjective
virile
VEER-ul/ˈvɪrəl/
Having traditionally masculine vigor or sexual potency.
The virile man lifts his partner into an eager, mutual kiss.
Etymology
The pieces mean “of a man,” originally marking adult male qualities in contrast with those of women or boys. That broad association with manhood developed into the more specific ideas of masculine force and sexual vigor.
In context
Natural Selection makes the alleles that make animals the strongest, most virile, and least-likely-to-die more frequent in the population.
More examples
- The novel portrays its hero as strong and virile.
- He worries that aging will make him less virile.
- The actor's deep voice adds to his virile image.
Forms
virile
virility noun — Traditionally masculine strength, energy, or sexual potency.
Similar words
- masculine
- Describes male-associated qualities without necessarily implying vigor or sexual potency.
- manly
- Emphasizes traditionally masculine character or behavior rather than sexual potency.