Machismo: meaning, definitions and examples

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machismo

[məˈtʃiːzməʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

society

A strong sense of traditional masculinity, characterized by exaggerated pride in one's masculinity and by a need to demonstrate dominance over others, especially women.

Synonyms

manliness, masculinity, virility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
machismo	Used when referring to an exaggerated sense of masculinity, often involving a dominating or overly confident attitude. This word can have a negative connotation when implying a lack of respect towards others, especially women. His machismo often alienates his colleagues. She couldn't stand his machismo and decided to leave.
masculinity	A broader term that refers to qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men. Can be used in both positive and neutral contexts, often concerning cultural or societal expectations. The film explores themes of masculinity and identity. His sense of masculinity doesn’t depend on physical strength.
virility	Primarily focuses on male sexual strength and potency. Often has a more specific and somewhat old-fashioned nuance related to reproductive capability. The king was admired for his virility and leadership. They questioned his virility due to his lack of children.
manliness	Refers to having qualities traditionally associated with men, like strength, bravery, and assertiveness. Often used in positive contexts but without the exaggerated connotations. He displayed great manliness in the face of danger. His manliness is evident in his ability to stay calm in tough situations.

Examples of usage

His machismo prevented him from showing vulnerability.
The culture of machismo in that society was prevalent.
She found his machismo to be off-putting.
Machismo often leads to toxic behavior.
Overcoming machismo stereotypes is necessary for progress.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

Latin America

A strong or exaggerated sense of manliness or masculine pride, often associated with a sense of honor and personal worth based on one's social status, physical strength, or courage.

Synonyms

machoism, manliness, virility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
machismo	Used to refer to an exaggerated pride in male qualities, often associated with arrogance and aggressive behavior. Sometimes carries a negative connotation. His machismo made him insist on fixing the car himself, even though he wasn't a mechanic. The culture of machismo in the workplace often leads to toxic environments.
machoism	Similar to machismo, focusing on traditional male behaviors and attitudes, often involving a display of toughness and bravado. Usually carries a negative connotation. His machoism often led to unnecessary confrontations with others. Machoism in media can influence younger generations to adopt unhealthy attitudes.
virility	Focuses on male strength, energy, and sexual potency. Often used in a positive sense, but can also be used in a more clinical or biological context. His virility was often a topic of discussion among his peers. Ancient cultures often celebrated symbols of virility and strength.
manliness	Refers to qualities traditionally associated with being a man, like strength and courage. Often used in a neutral or positive sense. He displayed great manliness by helping the family stuck during the snowstorm. Stories of manliness often highlight acts of bravery.

Examples of usage

The machismo culture in Latin America influences societal norms.
His machismo was evident in the way he carried himself.
The concept of machismo has deep roots in Latin American culture.
Machismo can sometimes lead to confrontations and violence.
Challenging traditional notions of machismo is important for gender equality.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Spanish word 'machismo', meaning 'masculinity'.
Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'masculus', which means male.
The word gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in Latin American cultures.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, 'machismo' is linked to traditional views of masculinity that emphasize dominance and strength.
Some communities celebrate it as part of male identity, while others criticize it for promoting unhealthy behavior.
Movies and literature, especially in Latin America, frequently portray characters embodying machismo, impacting societal expectations.

Psychology

Studies show that individuals who strongly identify with machismo may feel pressured to conform to aggressive or dominant behaviors.
This attitude can impact relationships, leading to issues such as lack of emotional expression or difficulty in vulnerability.
Men who embrace traditional machismo are at a higher risk for mental health issues due to societal pressures and stigma around seeking help.

Influence in Media

Popular action films often exaggerate machismo through exaggerated male heroes who pursue victory at any cost.
Hip-hop music sometimes glorifies machismo, influencing youth culture and perceptions of masculinity.
Television shows are beginning to challenge traditional machismo by portraying nuanced male characters who embrace vulnerability.

Societal Critique

Feminist movements have critiqued machismo, associating it with patriarchy and inequality in gender relations.
Many contemporary discussions advocate for a healthier masculinity that embraces empathy and emotional expression.
Workshops and educational programs are being developed to help reframe what it means to be a man in modern society.

Translations

Translations of the word "machismo" in other languages:

🇵🇹 machismo

🇮🇳 मर्दानगी

🇩🇪 Machismo

🇮🇩 machismo

🇺🇦 мачизм

🇵🇱 machismo

🇯🇵 マチズモ

🇫🇷 machisme

🇪🇸 machismo

🇹🇷 maçoluk

🇰🇷 남성 우월주의

🇸🇦 الرجولة

🇨🇿 machismus

🇸🇰 machizmus

🇨🇳 大男人主义

🇸🇮 mačizem

🇮🇸 karllægur yfirgangur

🇰🇿 мачизм

🇬🇪 მაჩიზმი

🇦🇿 maçizm

🇲🇽 machismo

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,058 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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31055 lineament
31056 teenaged
31057 moodily
31058 machismo
31059 electroscope
31060 eyelet
31061 bemoan
...