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

As a feminist who loathes the idea of toxic masculinity, I’ve worked to understand what is going on with the sexes these days.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

In “Warning Signs,” Sierra has set up an even more suspenseful tale centered on fathers, sons and the toxic masculinity that surrounds them.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 30, 2026

"I can only keep pushing for what I think is right, and work towards taking out the toxic masculinity in football changing rooms and creating a safe space."

From BBC • Oct. 8, 2025

Do you think this is one of the seeds of toxic masculinity?

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2025

Basketball coach Ryan Evans speaks about showing youngsters "the flip side" when trying to move them away from the influences of toxic masculinity.

From BBC • May 16, 2025