toxic masculinity

American  

[tok-sik mas-kyuh-lin-i-tee] / ˈtɒk sɪk ˌmæs kjəˈlɪn 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

"People who are struggling with their own sexuality, particularly in male-dominated environments and toxic masculinity environments, need to see other people who are out - people like me," he said.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 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

Netflix's hit TV series Adolescence explored toxic masculinity and the impact of mobile phones and social media on teenagers and family life.

From BBC • Oct. 15, 2025

I’m not sure I would consider him toxic masculinity .

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2025