Effeminacy: meaning, definitions and examples
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effeminacy
[ ɛfˈɛmɪnəsi ]
gender expression
Effeminacy refers to the quality of exhibiting traits traditionally associated with feminine behavior or appearance in a person, typically a male. This can include softness, delicacy, or concern for aesthetics and emotions. Effeminacy can challenge traditional gender norms and may carry various cultural connotations.
Synonyms
delicateness, femininity, softness, womanishness.
Examples of usage
- His effeminacy was often criticized by his peers.
- In some cultures, effeminacy is celebrated and embraced.
- The character's effeminacy added depth to the narrative.
- Effeminacy in art often reflects a broader commentary on gender roles.
Translations
Translations of the word "effeminacy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 efeminidade
🇮🇳 नारीत्व
🇩🇪 Weiblichkeit
🇮🇩 efeminasi
🇺🇦 ефемінність
🇵🇱 efeminacja
🇯🇵 女性的であること
🇫🇷 efféminement
🇪🇸 efeminidad
🇹🇷 efemineleşme
🇰🇷 여성스러움
🇸🇦 أنوثة
🇨🇿 efeminita
🇸🇰 efeminácia
🇨🇳 女性化
🇸🇮 efeminacija
🇮🇸 kvenlegur
🇰🇿 әйелдік
🇬🇪 ქალური
🇦🇿 effeminasiyalıq
🇲🇽 efeminidad
Etymology
The term 'effeminacy' comes from the Latin word 'effeminatus', which is the past participle of 'effeminare', meaning 'to make womanly or tender'. The root 'femina' refers to a female or woman. The word entered the English language around the late 14th century and was primarily used to describe men who displayed characteristics or behaviors that were culturally associated with women at that time. Over the centuries, its usage has evolved, often reflecting societal attitudes towards gender roles. In modern contexts, effeminacy may be viewed either negatively or positively, depending on cultural perspectives, and it raises discussions regarding masculinity and the fluidity of gender expression.