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

On a show that mainly followed the lives of teenagers, Dane’s portrayal of troubled father Cal was scene-stealing as he navigated themes of repression, toxic masculinity and generational conflict.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 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

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

He says teachers need to counteract the online influencers promoting toxic masculinity.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2025