Meaning & Definition of word "Effeminate"
Effeminate
/ɪˈfɛmɪnət/
adjective:
- 1. Having feminine qualities or characteristics; unmanly.
- Example: His effeminate mannerisms drew unwanted attention from his peers.
- 2. Weak, soft, or delicate in nature, often in a way considered inappropriate for a man.
- Example: The effeminate design of the clothing was criticized for not being masculine enough.
- 3. A term used to describe a man who displays characteristics culturally associated with women.
- Example: 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 of effeminate
Meaning: Nelly (slang)
● Example Sentence: He acts so nelly, always choosing the pink shades.
Meaning: Sassy (slang)
● Example Sentence: Don't be so sassy, it's so effeminate.