Effeminate

/ɪˈfɛmɪnət/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Having feminine qualities or characteristics; unmanly.

His effeminate mannerisms drew unwanted attention from his peers.

Weak, soft, or delicate in nature, often in a way considered inappropriate for a man.

The effeminate design of the clothing was criticized for not being masculine enough.

A term used to describe a man who displays characteristics culturally associated with women.

In the movie, the protagonist struggles with his effeminate traits in a hyper-masculine society.

From Latin 'effeminatus', meaning 'made womanish' or 'soft'.

effeminate behavior

Behavior that is considered stereotypically feminine.

effeminate man

A man exhibiting traits traditionally associated with women.

feminine

Having qualities or characteristics traditionally ascribed to women.

androgynous

Having both male and female characteristics.

Nelly (slang)

He acts so nelly, always choosing the pink shades.

Sassy (slang)

Don't be so sassy, it's so effeminate.