# girly

/ɡˈɜːli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/girly
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having qualities that people often think are typical for girls, like being pink, sweet, or very feminine. You use this to describe things like clothes, rooms, or behavior.

For teachers: characteristic of or appropriate to a girl; often used to describe aesthetics or behaviors perceived as traditionally feminine. Frequently carries a light, informal tone and can be used either affectionately or dismissively depending on context.

## Examples

- She decorated her bedroom with girly posters and pink pillows.
- The movie is a bit too girly for his taste, as he prefers action films over romantic comedies.
- While some critics dismissed the brand's aesthetic as merely girly, others argued it reclaimed traditional feminine symbols as a form of modern empowerment.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a gradable adjective; can be modified by 'very' or 'quite'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.