Effeminately: meaning, definitions and examples
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effeminately
[ ɪˈfɛmɪnətli ]
manner of speaking
The term 'effeminately' refers to a manner of behavior or expression that is considered characteristic of women or femininity. It suggests a softness, delicacy, or lack of masculinity in the way someone acts or speaks. This adverb is often used in a derogatory sense when describing men who exhibit traits traditionally associated with femininity.
Synonyms
delicately, femininely, softly.
Examples of usage
- He spoke effeminately, drawing attention to his soft voice.
- The actor portrayed his character effeminately, which was both criticized and praised.
- She gestured effeminately, captivating the audience with her style.
Translations
Translations of the word "effeminately" in other languages:
🇵🇹 efeminadamente
🇮🇳 नारीसुलभ तरीके से
🇩🇪 weibisch
🇮🇩 secara feminin
🇺🇦 ефемінно
🇵🇱 efeminacko
🇯🇵 女性的に
🇫🇷 efféminément
🇪🇸 efeminadamente
🇹🇷 kadınsı bir şekilde
🇰🇷 여성스럽게
🇸🇦 بطريقة أنثوية
🇨🇿 efeminně
🇸🇰 efeminovane
🇨🇳 女性化地
🇸🇮 efeminirano
🇮🇸 kvennlegum hætti
🇰🇿 әйелдік түрде
🇬🇪 ქალურად
🇦🇿 qadınsı şəkildə
🇲🇽 afeminadamente
Etymology
The word 'effeminately' is derived from the adjective 'effeminate,' which itself comes from the Middle English 'efeminat,' borrowed from the Latin 'effeminatus.' The Latin term combines 'ex-' meaning 'out of' and 'femina' meaning 'woman,' literally translating to 'made womanly.' Historically, the term has been used to describe men who exhibit traits considered feminine, often carrying a stigma within various cultures. Its usage skyrocketed during the Renaissance when ideals of masculinity and femininity were heavily scrutinized. The notion of effeminacy has changed over time, and while it once held a negative connotation, contemporary interpretations can be more nuanced, reflecting a broader understanding of gender expression.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #42,022, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.