ENGLISH
REFERENCE

effeminate

adj.
C1 Advanced US //iˈfɛmɪnət// UK //ɛfˈɛmɪnˌeɪt// ef·fem·i·nate Archaic Dialect Vulgar

adj. describing a man who has qualities or behaviors that people usually think of as feminine. It can also describe something that looks weak or soft.

adj. characterised by qualities or attributes traditionally associated with femininity; lacking in masculine strength or vigour. Often carries a derogatory or pejorative tone when applied to men.


SIMPLE

He was criticized for his effeminate style of dress.

CONTEXTUAL

The critic dismissed the actor's performance as effeminate, claiming it lacked the physical presence required for the role.

COMPLEX

The poet's use of delicate imagery and soft consonants was often described as effeminate by his more traditionalist contemporaries, who preferred the rugged cadence of the epic.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English effeminat, effemynat, from Latin effēminātus, past participle of effēminō, from fēmina (“woman”).

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