effeminate
UK: ɪˈfemɪnət | US: ɪˈfemɪnət
adj. (of a man or his behavior) having characteristics traditionally associated with femininity, such as delicacy or softness, often perceived as unmanly.
The word "effeminate" originates from Latin effeminatus, combining ex- (meaning "out of" or "thoroughly") and femina (meaning "woman"). It originally described a man who "becomes like a woman" in behavior or appearance, reflecting historical gender stereotypes. Over time, the term retained its core meaning but gained negative connotations of weakness or lack of masculinity in patriarchal contexts. The suffix -ate standardizes it as an adjective.
His effeminate mannerisms made him a target for bullying in the conservative community.
The actor’s effeminate portrayal of the character challenged traditional gender norms.
Critics dismissed the artist’s style as overly effeminate and lacking vigor.
In Renaissance literature, effeminate men were often depicted as morally corrupt.
Modern discussions reject labeling traits as inherently effeminate or masculine.