femme

American  

[fem] / fɛm /

Or fem

noun

1. 1. a lesbian who embraces identity markers that are associated with traditional expressions of femininity, as clothing, hairstyle, interests, or behaviors.

   2. a gay man who embraces identity markers that are associated with traditional expressions of femininity.

   3. any person who adopts a feminine appearance, manner, or persona.

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adjective

1. noting or relating to a feminine style or gender expression.

femme British  

/ fam, fɛm /

noun

1. a woman or wife

2. a lesbian who adopts a feminine role in a relationship

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Etymology

Origin of femme

First recorded in 1930–35; from French: literally “woman”; feme

Example Sentences

In her 2024 Tiny Desk Concert for NPR, Roan is surrounded by seven femme musicians, each wearing red lipstick, blue eyeshadow, a pink button-down or a red party dress.

From Salon • Feb. 19, 2026

But facts were easily eclipsed by lurid speculation, particularly when Short’s nickname was made public: The Black Dahlia was, after all, the perfect moniker for a femme fatale.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

A statuesque femme, way over 6 feet tall, Davis was, for decades, a ubiquitous, commanding figure across much of Los Angeles’ artistic landscape.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

Some days I returned to my high femme staples, but only when it suited my mood.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 8, 2024

“Le Christ et la femme adultère,” I read.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins

Related Words

• girl
• mother