nelly
adj. C2 Proficiency US //ˈnɛɫi// UK //nˈɛli// nel·ly
adj. a word used to describe a man who acts in a way that people think is feminine. It is often used as an insult, but some people in the LGBTQ+ community use it with pride.
adj. characterised by effeminate behavior or mannerisms, typically in reference to a gay man. Often derogatory in external use, though sometimes reclaimed within queer subcultures.
He has a very nelly way of walking.
The comedian made several jokes about his own nelly mannerisms to connect with the audience.
While the term was historically used to police masculinity within the community, many modern performers embrace a nelly aesthetic as a deliberate subversion of traditional gender norms.
Usage
Often used as a predicative adjective after linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.