masculinity

noun

mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌma-skyə-ˈli-nə-tē 

: the quality or nature of the male sex : the quality, state, or degree of being masculine or manly

challenging traditional notions about masculinity and femininity

… a style which alternates between a polished grace and blunt masculinity.

—Stuart Keate

The man controlling his environment is today the prevailing American image of masculinity.

—Susan Faludi

Synonyms

• machismo
• macho
• manhood
• manliness
• virility

Examples of masculinity in a Sentence

some men believe that wearing pink would undermine their masculinity

Recent Examples on the Web

The relationship between femininity, masculinity, doubt — which is maybe seen as weakness, maybe seen as a feminine quality. —Lily Ford, The Hollywood Reporter, 23 Oct. 2024

So for Love Is Blind to be one of the few spaces (especially on national television) to challenge toxic masculinity was striking to watch – but necessary in the long run. —Giana Levy, refinery29.com, 8 Oct. 2024

Despite the possibility of a female President, masculinity has swaggered to the center of the 2024 election—a development both parties seem to have embraced. —Molly Fischer, The New Yorker, 1 Oct. 2024

The bro vote: How masculinity is shaping the 2024 election. —Laura L. Davis, USA TODAY, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing masculinity

• hyper-masculinity

Medical Definition

masculinity

noun

mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌmas-kyə-ˈlin-ət-ē 

plural masculinities

: the quality, state, or degree of being masculine

measurement of masculinity or femininity

—Psychological Abstracts