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

See Examples For:

toxic masculinity

Sue Davison says the rise of toxic masculinity among influencers has a serious impact on "disenfranchised boys"

From BBC ● Aug. 3, 2026

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

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

This novel, winner of the Booker Prize, uses a blunt, clipped style to advantage, exposing Istvan as an exemplar of both toxic masculinity and hinting at what’s required to escape it.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 8, 2025

Exploring themes of toxic masculinity and the psychological pressures faced by teenage boys, there's been a greater discussion around how boys are supported emotionally and academically.

From BBC ● Aug. 14, 2025