effeminate
/ɪˈfemɪnət/ (bre, ipa) · /ɪˈfemɪnət/ (ame, ipa) · /ə-ˈfe-mə-nət/ (ame, mw)
effeminate — adjective
- effeminatepositive
- more effeminatecomparative
- most effeminatesuperlative
1. used to describe a man whose style, movements, or behaviour are seen by others a
used to describe a man whose style, movements, or behaviour are seen by others as resembling qualities that society traditionally expects in women — a description that is often meant critically or dismissively.
The other boys teased Kenji for being effeminate, simply because he spoke softly and avoided rough games.
teased for being effeminate — common disapproving frame
Thiago's uncle criticised his taste in clothing, calling it effeminate and unsuitable for a young man.
Amara stood up for her younger brother when classmates mocked his effeminate way of walking.
The film presents an effeminate villain whose delicate gestures are meant to signal weakness.
Coach Okonkwo ordered thirteen-year-old Chidi to run five extra laps, calling his exhausted tears effeminate and unworthy of the wrestling team.
用法筆記
This adjective is almost always used disapprovingly, implying that the man's behaviour or appearance falls short of socially expected masculine standards. It can be hurtful and is best avoided in neutral description.
常見錯誤
effeminate — noun
1. a word used as a hostile label for a person, typically a man, who is regarded by
a word used as a hostile label for a person, typically a man, who is regarded by others as having the qualities or mannerisms that society associates more with women than with men.
In the novel, the school bully called Thiago an effeminate and shoved him against the lockers.
noun used as a direct insult: 'an effeminate'
The opposition newspaper dismissed the mayor as an effeminate who could not handle tough decisions.
Director Hendricks called junior analyst Arun an effeminate at the Taipei staff meeting, and Arun transferred departments the next week.
用法筆記
Using 'effeminate' as a noun to refer to a person is considered more offensive than the adjective form. It reduces the person to a single perceived trait and functions as a slur. Avoid in neutral or formal writing.