manly

Manly means having qualities traditionally associated with men, such as courage or strength.

Manly is typically used to describe a man who has qualities (or who display qualities) that are generally considered to be characteristic of a man or manhood, as in He was dressed as a manly lumberjack with a thick beard and big muscles. 

It can also be used to describe things that involve, are intended for, are popular among, or are thought to be appropriate for men, as in My grandfather enjoyed manly hobbies like hunting.

Of course, all of these associations are based on gender stereotypes that are often sexist and exclusionary. Manly implies qualities, attributes, and interests that are not exclusive to men, and that do not apply to every man. Anyone can be courageous and strong. Anyone can be good at and enjoy sports or outdoor activities. For these reasons, many people avoid using adjectives like manly and object to their use.

Example: He calls himself a manly man who enjoys manly things like powerlifting and beef stew.

The first records of the word manly come from before 900. The adjective -ly is often used to form adverbs, but it is used here to form an adjective. It means “having the qualities of,” making manly mean “having the qualities a man.”

When used to describe males, manly is nearly always used positively to indicate that they have desirable traits or qualities. When it’s used to describe a woman, however, manly is more often used to accuse her of “acting like a man” or having the traits of a man, implying that this is a bad thing.

The word mannish is also used this way. Words like this are based on society’s concept of gender roles, which are ingrained stereotypes not tied to biology but instead based on traditional notions of how men and women should act.

What are some other forms related to manly?

• manliness (noun)

What are some synonyms for manly?

• macho
• masculine
• virile
• manlike
• manful

What are some words that share a root or word element with manly? 

• man
• mankind
• womanly

What are some words that often get used in discussing manly?

• man
• courage
• bravery
• confidence
• muscular
• athletic
• sports
• activities
• sexist
• stereotype