Word
sissy
Phoneticssis·sy, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈsɪsi/
UK/sˈɪsi/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a weak or cowardly person, especially a boy or man who is seen as not being 'tough' enough. It is an insulting word that people use to make fun of someone for being soft or feminine.
n. a derogatory term for a person, specifically a male, perceived as weak, cowardly, or effeminate. Often used to enforce traditional gender roles through social shaming.
Examples
“The older boys called him a sissy because he didn't want to fight.”
“He spent his childhood trying to prove he wasn't a sissy by joining every contact sport available.”
Examples
simple
“The older boys called him a sissy because he didn't want to fight.”
contextual
“He spent his childhood trying to prove he wasn't a sissy by joining every contact sport available.”
Usage
Informal and derogatory; frequently used as a pejorative to mock perceived lack of courage or traditional masculinity.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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