toxic masculinity

American  

[tok-sik mas-kyuh-lin-i-tee] / ˈtɒk sɪk ˌmæs kyəˈlɪn ɪ ti /

noun

1. a cultural concept of manliness that glorifies stoicism, strength, virility, and dominance, and that is socially maladaptive or harmful to mental health.

   Men and women both suffer when toxic masculinity perpetuates expectations that are restrictive and traumatizing.

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Usage

What does toxic masculinity mean? "Be a man. Only girls cry." This saying is an example of toxic masculinity, cultural expectations and standards of aggressive male behavior that are harmful not only to women and society but also to men themselves.

Etymology

Origin of toxic masculinity

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Toxic masculinity is something that’s very real and sneaks up in ways that can catch you off guard if you’re not vigilant.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 12, 2023

"Toxic masculinity" can be used in generalizing and simplistic ways.

From Salon • Oct. 8, 2022

Toxic masculinity is a hell of a preexisting condition to have during a pandemic.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 2, 2021

Toxic masculinity is understood when it’s the literary Okonkwo.

From Washington Post • Feb. 17, 2020

Toxic masculinity can be said to be the social pressure to conform to traditional ideals of masculinity, which privilege aggression, elevated class status and the suppression of emotions.

From The Guardian • Jan. 8, 2020