effeminacy
|ef/fem/i/na/cy|
C1
/ɪˈfɛmɪnəsi/
feminine traits
Etymology
Etymology Information
'effeminacy' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'effeminatus,' where 'ex-' meant 'out of' and 'femina' meant 'woman.'
Historical Evolution
'effeminatus' transformed into the Old French word 'effeminacie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'effeminacy' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to make womanly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having feminine qualities.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality or state of being effeminate; having traits, tastes, habits, etc., traditionally considered feminine.
His effeminacy was evident in his mannerisms and speech.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45