noun

virility

vuh-RIL-ih-tee/vəˈrɪləti/

Vigor associated with adult masculinity.

He sees his physical strength as a sign of virility.

A vigorous middle-aged man lifting a heavy, unmarked sandbag from the ground, conveying masculine strength and energy through a concrete physical action.

Etymology

virLatinman, hero

+ilLatinpertaining to

+ityLatinstate or quality

The pieces build the quality or state of manhood. From an earlier meaning “period of manhood,” virility came to name capacities traditionally associated with adult men, especially sexual potency and physical strength.

In context

How animals live 3:02

serving as a symbol of strength and virility during The Mating Season

"Gazelle: The Symbol of Grace and Beauty in the Wild!"

More examples

The ads portray athletic bodies as symbols of virility.
He worries that his low sex drive signals a loss of virility.
The doctor explains that virility does not guarantee fertility.

Forms

virility

virile adjective — Having vigor associated with adult masculinity.

Similar words

vigor: Describes strength and energy without specifically suggesting masculinity.
potency: Emphasizes sexual capacity rather than broader masculine strength and energy.
fertility: Refers specifically to the biological ability to produce offspring.