Masculinize: meaning, definitions and examples
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masculinize
[ ˈmæskjʊlaɪnˌaɪz ]
gender modification
To masculinize means to cause someone or something to acquire male characteristics or to be regarded as masculine. This term is often used in discussions about gender identity, gender roles, and societal expectations surrounding masculinity.
Synonyms
genderize, manify, masculine.
Examples of usage
- The new policy aims to masculinize the workplace culture.
- Sports have historically been used to masculinize young boys.
- Efforts to masculinize children's toys are seen in recent marketing campaigns.
Etymology
The term 'masculinize' is derived from the base word 'masculine', which has its roots in Latin 'masculinus', meaning 'male' or 'manly'. 'Masculine' itself is derived from 'masculus', a diminutive form of 'mas', meaning 'male'. The suffix '-ize' is used in English to form verbs indicating a process of making or becoming. Therefore, 'masculinize' literally means to make masculine. The concept of masculinization is prevalent in gender studies and discussions about the construction of gender identity, particularly how society defines and enforces traits considered typical of men. Over the years, the term has evolved, reflecting changes in societal attitudes towards gender, often used in contexts involving gender roles or transformations.