effeminate
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1ef·fem·i·nate

adjective \-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

2effeminate

noun

Definition of EFFEMINATE

: an effeminate person

First Known Use of EFFEMINATE

1597

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