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

Especially because Johnny Knoxville is sort of the peak of feral American masculinity. — Holden Seidlitz, New Yorker, 26 July 2026

The film draws on the filmmaker’s experiences as a neurodivergent gay man navigating the contradictory demands of masculinity. — Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 21 July 2026

There are fewer outlets to perform masculinity in ways that echo myths of glory. — Elizabeth Dray, STAT, 21 July 2026

Tristan Tate has built a following by creating and promoting a similar take on modern masculinity. — Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 20 July 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