effeminate

¹ef·fem·i·nate

adj \-nət\

Definition of EFFEMINATE

1

: having feminine qualities untypical of a man : not manly in appearance or manner

2

: marked by an unbecoming delicacy or overrefinement <effeminate art> <an effeminate civilization>

Examples of EFFEMINATE

1. He had a high and somewhat effeminate voice.
2. <a comedian deliberately affecting effeminate mannerisms>

Origin of EFFEMINATE

Middle English, from Latin effeminatus, from past participle of effeminare to make effeminate, from ex- + femina woman — more at feminine

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to EFFEMINATE

Synonyms: effete, epicene, sissified, sissy, unmanly, womanish

Antonyms: manlike, manly, mannish, masculine, virile

Related Words: feminine, girlish, girlie (or girly), womanlike, womanly; old-maidish, overnice, prissy, spinsterish; dandyish, dudish, foppish, sappy; camp, campy; antimacho

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