Manful: meaning, definitions and examples
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manful
[ ˈmæn.fəl ]
character traits
Manful refers to having qualities traditionally associated with men, such as bravery, strength, and resolve. It often implies a sense of courage and moral integrity.
Synonyms
brave, courageous, masculine, strong, valiant
Examples of usage
- He faced the challenges in a manful manner.
- Her manful spirit inspired everyone around her.
- He showed manful courage during the crisis.
Etymology
The term 'manful' emerges from Middle English, where it was used to describe someone showing the qualities of a man, especially in terms of courage and strength. Its roots trace back to the Old English word 'manna', meaning 'man', combined with the suffix '-ful', which means 'full of' or 'characterized by'. Thus, the term historically accentuates the attributes associated with traditional masculinity. Over the centuries, the word has retained its connotation of strength and valor, though it has also inspired discussions around gender traits and expectations in contemporary contexts, emphasizing qualities like bravery in both men and women.