Sissy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sissy
[ˈsɪsi ]
Definitions
negative connotation
A person, typically a man, who is regarded as effeminate or cowardly.
Synonyms
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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- He was bullied in school for being a sissy.
- Don't be such a sissy and stand up for yourself.
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.
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| girl |
This is a general term for a female child or young woman. It's neutral and widely used in everyday language.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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Examples of usage
- She's such a sweet sissy, always helping others.
- The little sissy was excited for her first day of school.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'sissy'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The origin of the word 'sissy' can be traced back to the mid-19th century in the United States. It is believed to have originated as a variant of the word 'sister', used to refer to a young girl or woman. Over time, the meaning of 'sissy' evolved to include connotations of weakness or cowardice, particularly when associated with men. The word has been used in a derogatory manner to belittle individuals who do not conform to traditional gender roles or expectations.