adj
effeminate
ih-FEH-mih-nuht
Effeminate (adj) means of a man or boy, having qualities or mannerisms traditionally associated with women. Example: “The actor was praised for his effeminate portrayal of the character.”
adj
1
Of a man or boy, having qualities or mannerisms traditionally associated with women.
"The actor was praised for his effeminate portrayal of the character."
How to use effeminate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a man showing traits stereotypically linked to femininity.
When to use it
Can carry a judgmental or old-fashioned tone depending on context, since it plays on gender stereotypes — use with care.
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Word forms
- Plural
- effeminates
- Third person singular
- effeminates
- Past tense
- effeminated
- Comparative
- more effeminate
- Superlative
- most effeminate
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The actor was praised for his _____ portrayal of the character.
Etymology
From Latin effeminatus, based on femina, "woman."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for effeminate
See all rhymes for 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.".
