effeminate

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Of a boy or man, exhibiting behavior or mannerisms considered typical of a woman or unmasculine.

   An effeminate and unmanly foppery.

2. 2
   adj

   Womanly; tender, affectionate, caring.

   Gentle, kind, effeminate remorse.

3. 3
   verb

   To make womanly; to unman.

   The studie of sciences doth more weaken and effeminate mens minds, than corroborate and adapt them to warre.

4. 4
   noun

   An effeminate person.

   The effeminates are males with obviously recognizable traits and mannerisms; […].

From Middle English effeminat, effemynat, from Latin effēminātus, past participle of effēminō, from fēmina (“woman”).

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