effeminacy

[ih-fem-uh-nuh-see]

noun

1. the state or quality of being effeminate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of effeminacy¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; effemin(ate) + -acy

Example Sentences

It imposes a sentence of 10 to 15 years for same-sex relations and a prison term of one to three years for people who undergo or perform gender-transition surgeries and for “intentional practice of effeminacy.”

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This was defined by a cultivated or performed effeminacy, including make-up, falsetto, and the use of "camp names" and female pronouns.

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He was criticized by his church and sent to therapy to fix his effeminacy at age 5.

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He subtly connects Michael’s accommodating friendship with Alan, who makes no bones about his distaste for male effeminacy, to Michael’s own self-loathing.

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In both cases, the disapproval has always betrayed fears of effeminacy.

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