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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While women with degrees have entered traditionally male careers, noncollege women grads typically are stuck in low-paying, pink-collar jobs.—
Joan C. Williams
June 13,
Literary Hub,
13 June 2025
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Security footage captured inside a strip mall showed three male suspects casing a Simi Valley jewelry store days before it was burglarized last month for more than $3 million in jewelry and other valuables.—
Andrew J. Campa,
Los Angeles Times,
13 June 2025
Adjective
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With collaborator and creative director Alasdair Willis bringing masculine energy to the aesthetic, the brand became increasingly inclusive — some studios now see their clientele consist of over 40% male, which is rarely, if ever, seen in the beauty industry.—
Angela Lei,
Forbes.com,
16 June 2025
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European premium denim brand Closed and Dutch lingerie label Love Stories have teamed up for a capsule collection that blends feminine and masculine elements.—
Angela Velasquez,
Sourcing Journal,
12 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Virile.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/virile. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.
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