WordGarden.iofeminine
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈɛmənˌɪn/
US
- /ˈfɛmənən/
Meanings
Adjective
having qualities, styles, or roles culturally associated with women or girls
belonging to or marked as the feminine grammatical gender
Noun
qualities or aspects culturally associated with women or girls
Beyond the definition
"Feminine" is not only about being female. It also describes qualities that many people have traditionally linked with women. For example, soft colors, flowing clothes, and gentle manners are often described as feminine. But these qualities are not limited to women. Anyone can show them, no matter their gender. A caring leader, for instance, might be said to have a feminine approach because they focus on empathy and working well with others.
The word comes from the Latin femina, meaning "woman." At first, it simply meant "of women" or "belonging to women." Later, it also came to describe certain styles, feelings, and ways of acting. You will often see it used in fashion, design, and personality descriptions.
The word "feminine" has several related meanings. Most often, it describes things connected with women or with qualities that people have traditionally linked to women. These may include grace, gentleness, care, sensitivity, or a soft and elegant style. These qualities are not naturally limited to one sex, but in many cultures they have long been grouped under the idea of femininity.
You will see "feminine" used in many contexts. In fashion, it can describe styles seen as traditionally womanly, such as floral prints, soft fabrics, or flowing shapes. In design, it may refer to soft colors, curved lines, and decorative details. It can also describe behavior or personality. Someone with a "feminine touch" may be seen as warm, gentle, or thoughtful in the way they handle people or spaces.
At the same time, the idea is not limited by gender. Men can show feminine qualities, and women can show traditionally masculine ones. Today, many people use the word in a broader and more inclusive way, recognizing that expression differs from person to person.
The word also has a grammar meaning. In many languages, such as French, Spanish, and German, some nouns belong to the feminine gender class. This affects the form of articles, adjectives, and sometimes pronouns. For example, in French, la table is grammatically feminine.
So, whether it describes style, personality, or grammar, "feminine" usually points to things connected with women or with traits traditionally linked to them, while modern use often leaves room for a wider range of expression.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
She wanted a suit that looked professional but still felt feminine.
- 2
Interior style
The room has a soft, feminine style, with flowers and light colors.
- 3
Style contrast
She likes mixing masculine and feminine styles in the same outfit.
- 4
Brand image
The brand changed its packaging to create a more feminine image.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Grammar form
In Spanish, many job titles have both a masculine and a feminine form.
- Grammarfeminine form
the version used for a woman or with feminine grammar
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- masculine
- gender-neutral
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- feminine style
- feminine features
- feminine energy
Word family
Explore
- gender expression
- androgynous
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- femininenounadjective
Forms
- femininespluralnounadjective