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Synonyms

man-made

American  
[man-meyd] / ˈmænˈmeɪd /

adjective

  1. produced, formed, or made by humans.

  2. produced artificially; not resulting from natural processes.

  3. Textiles.

    1. (of a fiber) manufactured synthetically from a cellulosic or noncellulosic base; produced chemically.

    2. (of a fabric or garment) constructed of synthetically made fibers.


man-made British  

adjective

  1. made or produced by man; artificial

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of man-made

First recorded in 1710–20

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Isn’t it wonderful, though, to have a reason to reacquaint yourself with a world map that isn’t related to war, natural or man-made disaster or economic and political tension?

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 1, 2026

Physical capacity across the world is constricted by a variety of chokepoints, some natural like Hormuz, some man-made like tariffs.

From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026

Carville said strimmers, electric lawnmowers, slug pellets, cars, cattle-grids and ponds were among the many man-made actions that contribute to hedgehog decline.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

While the museum representation is scrupulously faithful to what is known of the original vessel's design and dimensions, it was built largely with fibreglass and other man-made materials.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

A few man-made carcinogens have been part of the environment for centuries.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

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