macho

1 of 2

adjective

ma·​cho ˈmä-(ˌ)chō 

: characterized by machismo : aggressively virile

macho

2 of 2

noun

plural machos

1

: one who exhibits machismo

2

: machismo

Synonyms of macho

Noun

• masculinity

Examples of macho in a Sentence

Adjective

the macho world of football

Noun

their annual guys-only hunting trip is a celebration of macho

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

We’ve both been brought up playing sport our entire lives, which is quite the macho, classic lad setting. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 13 Aug. 2026

The idea that being more macho will fix young men's problems is an underlying message of the manosphere, which puts an emphasis on hypermasculinity, Levant explained. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2026

Noun

Through the 2010s Vijay gradually refined his socially conscious roles with a macho, virile energy that accelerated his superstardom. — Gitanjali Roy, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Mar. 2026

Hemsworth brings interesting shadings to his role, showcasing the requisite amount of Steve McQueen-style macho cool (the iconic actor is pointedly referenced) but also conveying Davis’ increasing fear and vulnerability. — Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 11 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Spanish, literally, male, from Latin masculus — more at masculine

First Known Use

Adjective

1949, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1949, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing macho

• anti-macho

Rhymes for macho

• quebracho