Refine this word faster
Effeminate
//ɪˈfɛmɪnət// adj, noun, verb
Definitions
Adjective
- 1 Of a boy or man, exhibiting behavior or mannerisms considered typical of a woman or unmasculine. derogatory, often
"An effeminate and unmanly foppery."
- 2 Womanly; tender, affectionate, caring. obsolete
"Gentle, kind, effeminate remorse."
Adjective
- 1 having unsuitable feminine qualities wordnet
Noun
- 1 An effeminate person.
"The effeminates are males with obviously recognizable traits and mannerisms; […]"
Verb
- 1 To make womanly; to unman. archaic, nonstandard, transitive
"the studie of sciences doth more weaken and effeminate mens minds, than corroborate and adapt them to warre."
- 2 To become womanly. intransitive
Etymology
Etymology 1
From Middle English effeminat, effemynat, from Latin effēminātus, past participle of effēminō, from fēmina (“woman”).
Etymology 2
From Middle English effeminat, effemynat, from Latin effēminātus, past participle of effēminō, from fēmina (“woman”).
Etymology 3
From Middle English effeminat, effemynat, from Latin effēminātus, past participle of effēminō, from fēmina (“woman”).
See also for "effeminate"
Next best steps
Mini challenge
Unscramble this word: effeminate