effeminate — having characteristics regarded as typical of a woman; unmanly
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: having characteristics regarded as typical of a woman; unmanly
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪˈfemɪnət/
Example Sentences
- The tough wrestler was surprisingly effeminate when he spoke in a high-pitched voice.
- His effeminate walk in high heels was more graceful than most models.
- The character's effeminate traits were exaggerated for comic effect.
effeminate
ADJECTIVE[/ɪˈfemɪnət/]
having characteristics regarded as typical of a woman; unmanly
Having feminine characteristics, unmanly
Don't eliminate what's effeminate - just discriminate against discrimination!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Latin effeminatus, meaning 'made feminine' or 'womanish.' In ancient Rome, it was used to describe men who displayed feminine characteristics or lacked masculine vigor, often carrying negative connotations in Roman society.
Breakdown
ex- (out, thoroughly) + feminatus (made feminine, from femina meaning 'woman'). The suffix -atus indicates a state or condition resulting from the action of the root.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The tough wrestler was surprisingly effeminate when he spoke in a high-pitched voice.”
“His effeminate walk in high heels was more graceful than most models.”
“The character's effeminate traits were exaggerated for comic effect.”
“He was teased for his effeminate handwriting that looked like calligraphy.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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