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
Stuart KeateThe man controlling his environment is today the prevailing American image of masculinity.—Susan Faludi
Susan FaludiExamples of masculinity in a Sentence
some men believe that wearing pink would undermine their masculinity
Recent Examples on the Web
In a world shackled by the tenets of patriarchy, men are still guided by antiquated ideals of masculinity.
—Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 21 Apr. 2026
LaFave told me that some of the guys like to have herbal tea in the evenings and discuss issues such as the problems with contemporary masculinity.
—Emma Green, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
Krasner came to artistic maturity during the time of Abstract Expressionism, which mythologized masculinity and self-destruction as artistic proof of life.
—Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 15 Apr. 2026
Adapted from Antonio Scurati’s novel, the series delves into the darker aspects of Mussolini’s character, illustrating how his toxic masculinity and exploitation of fear led to his ascent, while inviting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of his story in today’s political landscape.
—Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 9 Apr. 2026
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Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 21 Apr. 2026
LaFave told me that some of the guys like to have herbal tea in the evenings and discuss issues such as the problems with contemporary masculinity.
—Emma Green, New Yorker, 17 Apr. 2026
Krasner came to artistic maturity during the time of Abstract Expressionism, which mythologized masculinity and self-destruction as artistic proof of life.
—Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 15 Apr. 2026
Adapted from Antonio Scurati’s novel, the series delves into the darker aspects of Mussolini’s character, illustrating how his toxic masculinity and exploitation of fear led to his ascent, while inviting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of his story in today’s political landscape.
—Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 9 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for masculinity
Cite this Entry
“Masculinity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masculinity. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
Psychological AbstractsLove words? Need even more definitions?
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