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Males Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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males

[meɪlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological sex

Males are typically defined as the sex of an organism that produces small, mobile gametes (sperm cells) in species that reproduce sexually. This definition can apply to various organisms, including animals and plants. In many species, males are characterized by specific traits and behaviors that distinguish them from females.

Synonyms

boys, gentlemen, men.

Examples of usage

  • Males of many species exhibit vibrant colors during mating season.
  • In humans, males usually have XY chromosomes.
  • Males often engage in competition to attract females.
  • The male lion is known for its distinctive mane.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'males'

The word 'male' comes from the Latin word 'masculus', which means 'male, manly, or masculine.' It was first used in English in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, to differentiate men from women. The term evolved from various gender-related linguistic roots in ancient languages, reflecting biological and social distinctions. Over time, 'male' has come to represent not only the biological sex but also embody societal roles and expectations associated with masculinity. The reflection of these roles varies widely across cultures and has been the subject of much discussion in gender studies. Understanding the origin and evolution of the word sheds light on how society understands and categorizes gender today.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,273, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.