WordGarden.iomanly
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /mˈænli/
US
- /ˈmænli/
Meanings
Adjective
having qualities or a style conventionally associated with men or masculinity
Beyond the definition
"Manly" describes someone or something as having qualities traditionally linked with men, such as strength, courage, and toughness. It is often used to praise a person's look, behavior, or actions as boldly masculine. For example, a deep voice, a firm handshake, or a brave act might be called "manly." The word is still common, but it can sound old-fashioned or tied to traditional gender ideas, so the context matters.
The word "manly" describes qualities that people have traditionally connected with men, especially strength, courage, toughness, and a boldly masculine style. It can be used for a person's appearance, voice, behavior, or actions. A man with a broad build and a deep voice might be described as manly, and so might a brave or physically demanding act.
For a long time, the word was mostly used as praise. It suggested that someone matched an admired idea of what a man should be: strong, steady, fearless, and not easily shaken. Because of that history, the word often carries a traditional tone.
Today, people still use "manly" sincerely, but sometimes they avoid it because it can suggest narrow or old-fashioned ideas about gender. In some contexts, it may sound approving; in others, it may sound joking, ironic, or mildly critical. For example, calling a beard or a strong jaw manly is usually simple praise, while telling someone to "be manly" may sound like pressure to act in a certain stereotypical way.
So, at its core, "manly" means masculine in a strong, traditional sense. Depending on tone and situation, it can be warm praise, a playful joke, or a word that feels dated because of the social ideas attached to it.
Examples
- 1
Voice
He had a deep, manly voice.
- 2
Older writing
The old novel praises him for his manly courage.
- Usage
In older writing, manly often sounds formal or traditional.
- 3
Responsible action
Admitting the mistake was the manly thing to do.
- Phrasethe manly thing to do
the brave or responsible action
- 4
Self-image
He bought the huge grill partly because it made him feel manly.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Gender expectations
Some boys are told that crying is not manly, but that idea is unfair.
- 6
Product style
The ad tried to make the soap look more manly with black packaging and a woodsy smell.
See also
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- manlyadjectiveadverb
Forms
- manliestsuperlativeadjectiveadverb
- manliercomparativeadjectiveadverb