masculinity

noun

mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌma-skyə-ˈli-nə-tē 

: the quality or nature of the male sex : the quality, state, or degree of being masculine or manly

challenging traditional notions about masculinity and femininity

… a style which alternates between a polished grace and blunt masculinity.

—Stuart Keate

The man controlling his environment is today the prevailing American image of masculinity.

—Susan Faludi

Synonyms of masculinity

• maleness
• manhood
• manliness
• virility
• machismo

Examples of masculinity in a Sentence

some men believe that wearing pink would undermine their masculinity

Recent Examples on the Web

The controversial rise of Andrew Tate, a promoter of toxic masculinity across social media platforms, will be the subject of an upcoming Investigation Discovery docuseries. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 29 Oct. 2026

Manosphere vibes Some of the most popular creators – Rogan, Von, Carlson and Gillis – appeal to, or helped construct, the manosphere, a loose collection of online communities that promote masculinity and often reflect misogynistic attitudes. — Karrin Vasby Anderson, The Conversation, 29 Oct. 2026

As the race for the Senate seat in Texas enters its final week, the Republican attacks on the looks and masculinity of Democratic candidate James Talarico continue. — John Ficarra, New York Daily News, 27 Oct. 2026

Aside from his work on screen, the Londoner is an accomplished poet whose work explores themes of masculinity, love, grief and connection. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 23 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing masculinity

• hyper-masculinity

Rhymes for masculinity

• alkalinity
• consanguinity
• crystallinity
• femininity
• affinity
• divinity
• infinity
• salinity
• vicinity
• virginity

Medical Definition

masculinity

noun

mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌmas-kyə-ˈlin-ət-ē 

plural masculinities

: the quality, state, or degree of being masculine

measurement of masculinity or femininity

—Psychological Abstracts