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

The macho myth Decades of research undercut Hegseth’s core claim that more testosterone means a more aggressive, dominant, masculine man. — Adam Stanaland, The Conversation, 20 July 2026

By the end of the 1970s, the band and movemenet were losing goodwill, loathed by both the hip disco cognoscenti and a reactionary macho counterinsurgence that culminated in the vinyl furnace at Disco Demolition Night in Chicago. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 1 July 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