effeminize

[ ih-fem-uh-nahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, ef·fem·i·nized, ef·fem·i·niz·ing.

1. to make effeminate.

Word History and Origins

Origin of effeminize¹

First recorded in 1605–15; effemin(ate) + -ize

Example Sentences

The diminutive form of that name has morphed into an effeminizing epithet that has a clear gender component, but not necessarily a sexual one.

From Salon

On the whole, men as a class probably show a preponderance of what may be termed masculine characteristics, as greater egoism, variability, activity; but these masculine characteristics have been modified, lessened, effeminized, so to speak.

From Project Gutenberg

Love has the tendency to undermine the right and to effeminize society.

From Project Gutenberg

And hearing himself thus effeminized, Ted winced and wondered if he had not better have asked her after all.

From Project Gutenberg

He said that the influence of women on the Occidental man is effeminizing our civilization.

From Project Gutenberg