masculinity
UK: ˌmæskjʊˈlɪnəti | US: ˌmæskjəˈlɪnəti
n. the qualities or attributes traditionally associated with men, such as strength, assertiveness, or emotional restraint
n. the state or condition of being male
n. (sociology) cultural or social expectations of male behavior
masculinity = mascul<male> + inity<noun suffix>
- mascul<male>: Derived from Latin masculus (male, masculine), from mas (male).
- inity<noun suffix>: A noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -initas, indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin masculus, meaning "male," which itself stems from mas (a male individual). Over time, masculus evolved into Old French masculin, and later into Middle English as masculine. The suffix -ity (from Latin -itas) was added to form the abstract noun masculinity, denoting the state or qualities of being male. The term reflects societal constructs of male identity, historically tied to physical strength and dominance.
Traditional notions of masculinity often emphasize emotional stoicism.
The film explores the fragility behind societal expectations of masculinity.
Modern psychology challenges rigid definitions of masculinity.
His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of masculinity.
The study examines how masculinity is portrayed in media.