Main Entry:

vir·ile

Pronunciation:

\ˈvir-əl, ˈvir-ˌī(-ə)l, British also ˈvī(-ə)r-ˌī(-ə)l\

Function:

adjective

Etymology:

Middle French or Latin; Middle French viril, from Latin virilis, from vir man, male; akin to Old English & Old High German wer man, Sanskrit vīra

Date:

15th century

1: having the nature, properties, or qualities of an adult male ; specifically : capable of functioning as a male in copulation2: energetic, vigorous3 a: characteristic of or associated with men : masculine b: having traditionally masculine traits especially to a marked degree4: masterful, forceful

— vir·ile·ly adverb