Effeminacy (Noun)
Meaning
The trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man); "the students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy"; "Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness"; "he was shocked by the softness of the atmosphere surrounding the young prince, arising from the superfluity of the femininity that guided him".
Classification
Nouns denoting attributes of people and objects.
Usages
Examples
- The coach criticized the player for displaying effeminacy on the field, saying it showed weakness in his game.
- Historians have attributed the downfall of the kingdom to the ruler's perceived effeminacy and lack of leadership.
- Critics claimed the artist's use of bright colors and florals in his designs reflected an air of effeminacy.
- The soldiers' brutal treatment was intended to strip the prisoners of any signs of effeminacy and break their spirits.
- Society's expectations of traditional masculinity led many to view the young actor's expressions of emotion as a sign of effeminacy.