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menfolk

American

[men-fohk] / ˈmɛnˌfoʊk /

Also menfolks

plural noun

men, especially those belonging to a family or community.

The menfolk are all working in the fields.

menfolk British

/ ˈmɛnˌfəʊk /

plural noun

men collectively, esp the men of a particular family

"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 menfolk

First recorded in 1795–1805; men + folk

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.

Most gallingly for their menfolk, these previously disenchanted wives had also found self-confidence and a notable degree of emotional independence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

This being a western, there are plenty of menfolk squinting and spitting, making threats and getting into fights; certainly Jacob and Spencer are heroes of traditional dye.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2025

The bonhomie of an informal support network, independent of their menfolk and families.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2023

She regretted that her menfolk were always being locked up, but she was proud that they were incarcerated with distinguished people.

From The New Yorker • Jul. 22, 2019

“You’re turning into a regular scold, Mattie Cook. You sound like your mother, ordering menfolk around.”

From "Fever 1793" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023