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

In the spring, Garrison starts tomatoes and other plants in the greenhouse, and her collection of citrus trees, hibiscus, macho ferns and Australian tree ferns make their home there in the winter. —Mary Grace Granados, Dallas Morning News, 3 Mar. 2026

Rather than finding redemption, however, Corby—unable to shed his macho tendencies—continues to suffer because of his own recklessness. —Eric Magnuson, The Atlantic, 2 Mar. 2026

Noun

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

The adventure centers on misfits stuck in a fantasy world that makes the most of their creativity, with an unhinged Jack Black singing about lava chicken and a hilariously macho Jason Momoa gamely taking the brunt of the gags. —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 28 June 2025

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