as in male
of, relating to, or marked by qualities traditionally associated with men
men were once expected to be interested only in such virile activities as hunting
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of virile
While a tabloid scandal and a terrorist plot don’t seem like fuel for a winning Oscar campaign, all of it contributed to Crowe’s image as a throwback to the days when Hollywood leading men were virile and larger than life.
—
Joe Reid, Vulture, 26 Nov. 2024
And John himself is a strong, virile man willing to take control of any situation.
—William Earl, Variety, 25 Nov. 2024
As Henry, Damien Lewis is especially virile if privately conflicted and a sentimental drunk.
—Elle Carroll, Vulture, 18 June 2024
Pitt’s sculpted physique remains a fitness ideal, and his virile performance is worshiped by pickup artists and incels.
—Stephen Kearse, The Atlantic, 15 Oct. 2024
See All Example Sentences for virile
Joe Reid, Vulture, 26 Nov. 2024
And John himself is a strong, virile man willing to take control of any situation.
—William Earl, Variety, 25 Nov. 2024
As Henry, Damien Lewis is especially virile if privately conflicted and a sentimental drunk.
—Elle Carroll, Vulture, 18 June 2024
Pitt’s sculpted physique remains a fitness ideal, and his virile performance is worshiped by pickup artists and incels.
—Stephen Kearse, The Atlantic, 15 Oct. 2024
See All Example Sentences for virile
Recent Examples of Synonyms for virile
Adjective
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There is no word yet on other casting picks, but the film will surely provide excellent roles for a variety of stars, including Marianne, and a trio of male suitors the sisters come to know, including Edward Ferrars, Colonel Brandon, and John Willoughby.—
Kate Erbland,
IndieWire,
25 June 2025
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While the male costars were snubbed for any major award nominations that year for the film, actress Kirsten Dunst scored a Golden Globe best supporting actress nod for her portrayal in the film.—
Jay Stahl,
USA Today,
25 June 2025
Adjective
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However, the 49-year-old actress noted that her own personal style tends to skew more toward edgy and masculine looks, much to the displeasure of her kids.—
EW.com,
EW.com,
25 June 2025
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The alpha as a crude avatar for masculine power makes perfect sense in that context.—
Louis Peitzman,
Vulture,
20 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Virile.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/virile. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.
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