virility

[ vuh-ril-i-tee ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being virile; manly character, vigor, or spirit; masculinity.
2. the power of procreation.

Other Words From

• nonvi·rili·ty noun
• ultra·vi·rili·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of virility¹

1580–90; < Latin virīlitās, equivalent to virīli ( s ) virile + -tās -ty ²

Example Sentences

Bulls are a symbol of virility and manhood in Hispanic culture, and the Bull — thick-built, hard-charging, yet graceful in his attack — manifested that fearsome animal through most of his career with the Blue Crew.

From Los Angeles Times

Chakwera and Biya used very different approaches to tackle the rumours about illnesses, but they had a similar intent - to project, and protect, an image of strength and virility.

From BBC

These are the same folks who listen to an elderly man in orange makeup whine for hours and somehow read that as "virility" and "strength."

From Salon

Other pop cultural icons of the “tough guy business” were recruited to praise Trump’s exceptional virility.

From Salon

Perhaps the other most significant barrier to the adoption of veganism among athletes is the equation of meat with strength, power, virility, and other qualities typically seen as masculine.

From Salon

Related Words

• manhood
• potency
• vigor