Masculinity
/ˌmæsk.jəˈlɪn.ɪ.ti/noun
The qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of men.
Did you know?The concept of masculinity has been shaped by ancient rites, where strength was often linked with the divine and dangerous.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*masḱ-
“to be strong, to be male.”
Latin
Latin
masculinus
“male, manly, of a man.”
Old French
Old French
masculin
“masculine, pertaining to men.”
Middle English
Middle English
masculin
“having the qualities of a man.”
16th Century
English
masculinity
“state of being male; manliness.”
Explore more surprising origins