Unfeminine: meaning, definitions and examples

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unfeminine

 

[ ʌnˈfɛmɪnɪn ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

gender traits

The term 'unfeminine' is used to describe characteristics, behaviors, or appearances that do not conform to traditional notions of femininity. It suggests a deviation from what is commonly accepted as feminine behavior or style. This can include assertiveness, toughness, or interests that are stereotypically considered more masculine. The word may also carry implications about societal expectations and norms regarding gender roles. Its usage may be context-dependent, reflecting cultural variations in understanding gender.

Synonyms

androgynous, masculine, unwomanly

Examples of usage

  • She has an unfeminine way of speaking.
  • His unfeminine fashion choices surprised everyone.
  • She exhibited an unfeminine independence.
  • They criticized her unfeminine interests.

Translations

Translations of the word "unfeminine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não feminina

🇮🇳 अन्य-लिंगीय

🇩🇪 unweiblich

🇮🇩 tidak feminin

🇺🇦 не жіночний

🇵🇱 niefeminny

🇯🇵 非女性的な

🇫🇷 non féminin

🇪🇸 no femenino

🇹🇷 kadınsı olmayan

🇰🇷 비여성적인

🇸🇦 غير أنثوي

🇨🇿 neženský

🇸🇰 neženský

🇨🇳 非女性的

🇸🇮 neženski

🇮🇸 ekki kvenkyns

🇰🇿 әйелдік емес

🇬🇪 არადამაკავშირებელი

🇦🇿 qadınsı olmayan

🇲🇽 no femenino

Etymology

The word 'unfeminine' is formed by adding the prefix 'un-' to 'feminine', which comes from the Latin 'femininus', meaning 'of woman or female'. The prefix 'un-' is used in English to indicate negation or absence. The concept of femininity has historically been shaped by cultural and societal norms, and the term 'unfeminine' emerged as a descriptor for those traits or behaviors that fall outside these norms. It can denote a range of attributes that are perceived as not aligning with traditional women's roles, reflecting ongoing discussions about gender identity and expression. Over time, as societal views on gender have evolved, so too has the interpretation of what it means to be unfeminine, leading to a broader understanding of gender fluidity and roles.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,651, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.