he-man

[ hee-man ]

noun

, Informal.

, plural he-men.

1. a strong, tough, virile man.

he-man

noun

1. informal.
   a strongly built muscular man

Word History and Origins

Origin of he-man¹

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Example Sentences

Abdiel joined the Graham company in 2011, but came to find the Graham repertoire, with its he-man roles for male dancers, limiting.

From New York Times

The June 26 Washington Post Magazine article “The rise — and cost — of he-man politics” was important for two reasons.

From Washington Post

It is a trend that could make classic Hollywood he-man John Wayne proud.

From Washington Times

Motivated to impress the show’s producers, he landed a part in the musical’s he-man chorus by performing handsprings.

From Washington Post

Despite Johnson’s evident charisma, the movies wanted a he-man.

From New York Times