manhood

noun

man·​hood ˈman-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce manhood (audio)
1
: the condition of being a human being
2
: qualities associated with men : manliness
3
: the condition of being an adult male as distinguished from a child or female
4
: adult males : men
5
: penis

Examples of manhood in a Sentence

He took the comment as a challenge to his manhood. He grew from boyhood to manhood in a small southern town. the manhood of a nation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The traditional markers of manhood, like being the breadwinner and having a romantic partner, are out of reach for many young men. Kian Bakhtiari, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025 This survey comes at a time when boys are inundated with confusing societal messages about manhood, and firearms continue to be the leading cause of death for children and teenagers. Sarah Scott, Parents, 9 May 2025 All men are caught in the crossfire, questioning their own role in society and manhood. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 2025 Fellas, your cocktail glass is not a threat to your manhood. Jessi Roti, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for manhood

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of manhood was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Manhood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manhood. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

manhood

noun
man·​hood ˈman-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce manhood (audio)
1
2
: the condition of being an adult male
3
: adult human males
the manhood of a nation

More from Merriam-Webster on manhood

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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