masculinization
|mas-cu-li-ni-za-tion|
/ˌmæskjʊlɪnəˈzeɪʃən/
make male
Etymology
'masculinization' originates from English formation of the verb 'masculinize' plus the suffix '-ation'; 'masculinize' in turn comes from French 'masculiniser' and ultimately from Latin 'masculinus' (from 'masculus'), where 'masculus' meant 'male, masculine'.
'masculinization' developed from the verb 'masculinize' (formed in Modern English from French 'masculiniser'), which itself traces back to Latin 'masculinus' derived from 'masculus'; over time these forms entered English via French and Latin influence to produce the modern noun 'masculinization'.
Initially related to the basic sense of 'male' or 'masculine' (from Latin 'masculus' meaning 'male'); over time the derived verbs and nouns came to mean 'to make or become masculine' and finally the modern noun 'masculinization' signifying the process or state of becoming masculine.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the process or act of making something masculine or giving it masculine characteristics; the condition of becoming or being made masculine.
The masculinization of the company's culture discouraged many women from applying for leadership roles.
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Noun 2
(Biology/medicine) The development or appearance of male secondary sexual characteristics, often as a result of exposure to androgens.
Prenatal exposure to excess androgens can lead to masculinization of the fetus.
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Last updated: 2025/10/11 04:56