femme

American  

[fem] / fɛm /

Or fem

noun

1. 1. a lesbian who embraces identity markers that are associated with traditional expressions of femininity, as clothing, hairstyle, interests, or behaviors.

   2. a gay man who embraces identity markers that are associated with traditional expressions of femininity.

   3. any person who adopts a feminine appearance, manner, or persona.

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adjective

1. noting or relating to a feminine style or gender expression.

femme British  

/ fam, fɛm /

noun

1. a woman or wife

2. a lesbian who adopts a feminine role in a relationship

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Etymology

Origin of femme

First recorded in 1930–35; from French: literally “woman”; feme

Example Sentences

A key track off Laferte’s noirish “Femme Fatale,” “Las Flores Que Dejaste En La Mesa” takes off with the quiet longing of bossa nova, boils into unhinged bolero territory, then incorporates the icy electro loops of trip-hop icons Portishead.

From Los Angeles Times

A statuesque femme, way over 6 feet tall, Davis was, for decades, a ubiquitous, commanding figure across much of Los Angeles’ artistic landscape.

From Los Angeles Times

I wrote “Mechanic Shop Femme’s Guide to Car Ownership” to help the average car owner get a handle on all things cars.

From Salon

Mechanic Shop Femme’s Guide to Car Ownership – I’m definitely biased with this gift recommendation, but can you blame me?

From Salon

Pierre Renoir’s Maigret is stoical and efficient, and will not be vamped by Winna Winifried’s peculiar femme fatale, as hard as she tries.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• girl
• mother