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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

effeminate behavior
Behavior that is considered stereotypically feminine.
effeminate man
A man exhibiting traits traditionally associated with women.

Related Words

feminine
Having qualities or characteristics traditionally ascribed to women.
androgynous
Having both male and female characteristics.

Slang Meanings

Nelly (slang)
He acts so nelly, always choosing the pink shades.
Sassy (slang)
Don't be so sassy, it's so effeminate.