Sissy: meaning, definitions and examples

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sissy

[ˈsɪsi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

negative connotation

A person, typically a man, who is regarded as effeminate or cowardly.

Synonyms

coward, weakling, wimp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sissy	This term is used to describe someone who is seen as not brave or strong, often in a mocking or derogatory way. It is generally used in informal contexts and can be offensive. 'Stop being such a sissy and go talk to her ' 'He didn't want to look like a sissy in front of his friends '
coward	This word describes someone who lacks courage to face danger or difficulty. It is often used in serious situations to criticize someone's unwillingness to act bravely. 'Running away from the problem makes you a coward ' 'She called him a coward for not standing up to his boss '
weakling	This word is used to label someone as physically weak or lacking in strength. It can also imply that the person is lacking in character or resolve. 'He was always the weakling in gym class ' 'They made fun of him, calling him a weakling '
wimp	Often used in informal settings, 'wimp' refers to someone who is perceived as lacking physical strength or courage. It is usually mild in comparison to 'coward' but still has a negative connotation. 'Don't be such a wimp, it's just a small hill!' 'He's such a wimp when it comes to scary movies '

Examples of usage

He was bullied in school for being a sissy.
Don't be such a sissy and stand up for yourself.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A girl or a young woman.

Synonyms

girl, lass, young woman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sissy	This word is often used to describe someone who is seen as overly sensitive, weak, or cowardly. It has a negative connotation and can be considered offensive. Don't be such a sissy, just go talk to her. He was teased for being a sissy because he didn't like sports.
girl	This is a general term for a female child or young woman. It's neutral and widely used in everyday language. The girl in the red dress is my sister. There's a new girl in my class.
young woman	This phrase is a respectful and formal way to refer to a female who is no longer a child but not yet middle-aged. It's neutral and suitable for various formal or polite contexts. The young woman at the counter was very helpful. As a young woman, she had many dreams of traveling the world.
lass	This term is commonly used in British English and refers to a young woman or girl. It is generally neutral and often used affectionately. There's a bonnie lass waiting for you outside. A young Scottish lass greeted us at the inn.

Examples of usage

She's such a sweet sissy, always helping others.
The little sissy was excited for her first day of school.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originated in the late 19th century and is believed to be a diminutive form of 'sister'.
Initially, it referred to young boys who showed qualities associated with femininity, not necessarily in a derogatory manner.
Over time, the meaning evolved into a more pejorative term, often used to imply weakness or cowardice.

Pop Culture

Used in various films and television shows to depict characters who are seen as less masculine, reflecting societal views on gender roles.
The word appears in popular songs, often addressing themes of masculinity and vulnerability.
In some modern contexts, it has been reappropriated by LGBTQ+ communities, reclaiming the term with a sense of pride and identity.

Psychology

Labeling someone as 'sissy' can reinforce stereotypes about gender roles, impacting self-esteem and body image.
Research suggests that boys are often socialized to suppress emotional expression, which can lead to harmful effects when these labels are applied.
The use of such terms can create a culture of bullying, as those labeled may feel pressured to conform to traditional masculine ideals.

Literature

The word is often used in literary works to explore themes of masculinity and vulnerability, reflecting societal expectations.
In some children's literature, characters labeled as 'sissies' may embark on journeys of self-acceptance, showcasing the struggle against societal norms.
The use of the term in narratives can highlight the fluidity of gender identity and challenge traditional definitions.

Educational Perspectives

Educational programs are increasingly addressing the harmful effects of bullying language, including terms like 'sissy'.
Discussions in classrooms about gender stereotypes often cite the term as an example of how language can perpetuate bias.
Anti-bullying initiatives aim to empower students to understand the implications of labels like 'sissy' and promote inclusivity.

Translations

Translations of the word "sissy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mariquinha

🇮🇳 कमज़ोर

🇩🇪 Weichei

🇮🇩 banci

🇺🇦 слабак

🇵🇱 mięczak

🇯🇵 弱虫 (yowamushi)

🇫🇷 mauviette

🇪🇸 nenaza

🇹🇷 zayıf

🇰🇷 겁쟁이 (geopjaengi)

🇸🇦 جبان (jabān)

🇨🇿 slaboch

🇸🇰 slaboch

🇨🇳 胆小鬼 (dǎnxiǎoguǐ)

🇸🇮 mevža

🇮🇸 veiklyndi

🇰🇿 ез

🇬🇪 სუსტა (susta)

🇦🇿 qorxaq

🇲🇽 nenaza

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,136 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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31133 accolade
31134 patronymic
31135 herniated
31136 sissy
31137 hula
31138 oculist
31139 repossess
...