Manliness: meaning, definitions and examples

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manliness

[ˈmanlēnəs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

quality of being manly

Manliness is a set of attributes, behaviors, and roles associated with boys and men. It is often defined as courage, strength, and a sense of responsibility. In various cultures, manliness is valued differently, but it typically involves traits such as honor, bravery, and assertiveness.

Synonyms

bravery, masculinity, virility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
manliness	Used to describe qualities typically associated with being a man, such as strength, courage, and confidence. Often used in a positive manner to commend someone for embodying traditional male attributes. His act of helping the stranded family showed true manliness. He was admired for his manliness and decisiveness.
masculinity	Refers to the attributes, behaviors, and roles generally associated with boys and men. Often used in discussions about gender and social expectations, and can be either positive or negative depending on the context. The culture often emphasizes traditional masculinity in men. He questioned the traditional notions of masculinity.
virility	Used to describe a man's strength, energy, and sexual potency. Often has a biological connotation and can sometimes be used in a way that objectifies men. He took pride in his virility and physical ability. The advertisement highlighted the product's ability to boost virility.
bravery	Used in contexts where someone is exhibiting courage and facing danger, fear, or difficulty with a bold attitude. It is gender-neutral and can describe anyone's courageous actions. The firefighter's bravery saved many lives. She showed bravery by speaking out against the injustice.

Examples of usage

His manliness was evident in the way he protected his family.
She admired his manliness and how he stood up for what he believed in.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Old English word 'mann', which originally meant 'human being' and over time became associated with male attributes.
The term evolved during the Middle Ages, where it became linked with chivalry and knightly virtues.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, qualities associated with manliness include courage, resilience, and responsibility.
Different societies have defined manliness through varying traits, suggesting that the concept is deeply rooted in cultural norms.

Psychology

Research indicates that societal expectations about manliness can affect mental health, as men often feel pressured to conform to these ideals.
The concepts of masculinity and manliness are evolving, recognizing vulnerability and emotional expression as valuable traits.

Literature

Classic literature often explores manliness through the journey of the hero, highlighting themes of sacrifice and honor.
Modern narratives frequently challenge traditional notions of manliness, presenting complex male characters that exhibit a range of emotions.

Pop Culture

Movies and television shows frequently depict manliness through action heroes and strong leaders, often reinforcing or challenging stereotypes.
The rise of social media has created new platforms for discussing and redefining what it means to be manly in today's world.

Translations

Translations of the word "manliness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 masculinidade

🇮🇳 पुरुषत्व

🇩🇪 Männlichkeit

🇮🇩 kejantanan

🇺🇦 мужність

🇵🇱 męskość

🇯🇵 男らしさ (otokorashisa)

🇫🇷 virilité

🇪🇸 masculinidad

🇹🇷 erkeklik

🇰🇷 남자다움 (namjadawum)

🇸🇦 رجولة (rujulah)

🇨🇿 mužnost

🇸🇰 mužnosť

🇨🇳 男子气概 (nánzǐ qìgài)

🇸🇮 moškost

🇮🇸 karlmennska

🇰🇿 еркектік

🇬🇪 მამაკაცობა (mamakacoba)

🇦🇿 kişilik

🇲🇽 masculinidad

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,590, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22587 cuneiform
22588 setter
22589 hibernation
22590 manliness
22591 dampen
22592 foiled
22593 disquiet
...