masculinity

noun

mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌma-skyə-ˈli-nə-tē How to pronounce masculinity (audio)
: 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

Examples of masculinity in a Sentence

some men believe that wearing pink would undermine their masculinity
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 series sparked an ongoing conversation about social media, toxic masculinity, and boyhood. Parents Editors, Parents, 22 July 2025 As has been written by many, the perception of masculinity was boosted by the endorsement of masculine podcasters and influencers. Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 21 July 2025 Obama's comments—which had amassed 9.1 million views at the time of writing after being shared to wife Michelle's Instagram account—come amid growing public discussion around masculinity, emotional development and male loneliness. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025 The title, provocative by design, belies a layered comedy that examines modern masculinity, loyalty, and emotional vulnerability. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for masculinity

Word History

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of masculinity was in 1613

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Cite this Entry

“Masculinity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masculinity. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

masculinity

noun
mas·​cu·​lin·​i·​ty ˌmas-kyə-ˈlin-ət-ē How to pronounce masculinity (audio)
plural masculinities
: the quality, state, or degree of being masculine
measurement of masculinity or femininityPsychological Abstracts

More from Merriam-Webster on masculinity

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