effeminate
11 synonyms and 4 antonyms for effeminate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Of a man or boy, having qualities or mannerisms traditionally associated with women.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Latin effeminatus, based on femina, "woman."
Full origin of effeminate →Frequently asked questions
What does “effeminate” mean?
The word “effeminate” means of a man or boy, having qualities or mannerisms traditionally associated with women. In plain terms, describes a man showing traits stereotypically linked to femininity.
How do you pronounce “effeminate”?
“Effeminate” is pronounced ih-FEH-mih-nuht (/ɪˈfɛmɪnət/ in IPA).
How do you use “effeminate” in a sentence?
Here is “effeminate” used in a sentence: “The actor was praised for his effeminate portrayal of the character.”
What is another word for “effeminate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “effeminate” include camp, swish, epicene, effete, feminine and unmanly.
What is the opposite of “effeminate”?
The opposite of “effeminate” — its antonyms — are uneffeminate, noneffeminate, non-effeminate and immasculate.
What part of speech is “effeminate”?
“Effeminate” is an adjective.
Where does the word “effeminate” come from?
The word “effeminate” comes from Latin. From Latin effeminatus, based on femina, "woman.".
