man-made

adjective

ˈman-ˈmād 

-ˌmād

: manufactured, created, or constructed by human beings

specifically : synthetic

man-made fibers

Synonyms of man-made

• synthetic
• artificial
• faux
• simulated
• fake
• imitation

Examples of man-made in a Sentence

man-made diamonds that were really just glass

the houses in the new development are built around a man-made lake

Recent Examples on the Web

Most lakes in this area are man-made, according to Spencer. — Matthew Cupelli, Cincinnati Enquirer, 19 Mar. 2026

Over time, a single nest can become a layered structure of natural and man-made materials. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Apr. 2026

It’s been his routine for decades, through all manner of upheaval and events — social, political, natural and man-made. — Los Angeles Times, 5 Apr. 2026

From ancient canyon walls to towering monuments, these are the iconic destinations — both natural and man-made — that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. — Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for man-made

• afraid
• allayed
• arcade
• arrayed
• assayed
• barmaid
• betrayed
• blockade
• bridesmaid
• brigade
• brocade
• buffeted

Kids Definition

man-made

adjective

ˈman-ˈmād

: made by people rather than nature

man-made satellites

especially : synthetic entry 1 sense 2

man-made fibers