What does laddishness mean?
Laddishness is a chiefly British noun for swaggering, immature, or aggressively masculine behavior. It describes conduct that is often associated with young men behaving as if toughness, dominance, or female denigration were signs of importance. The word is strongly evaluative and generally appears in critical contexts, such as commentary on films, politics, sport, or public behavior. It is related to the older term “laddie,” meaning a young man, and to the adjective “laddish.” Although the expression can still convey a recognizable social criticism, it sounds more dated and formal than newer alternatives such as “toxic masculinity” or “male chauvinism,” which may emphasize different aspects of the behavior.
nounLaddishness is the behavior or attitude associated with a laddish person, especially swaggering, immature, or aggressively masculine behavior.
- Behavior regarded as characteristic of a young or immature man, especially swaggering, domineering, or male chauvinistic behavior.
"The film was criticized for its laddishness and its celebration of male aggression."
"His laddishness made the team members uncomfortable."
"The article dismissed the remark as an example of laddishness rather than a serious argument."
The plural is possible but rare.
"The novel portrays different forms of laddishness across the town."
Laddishness names a recognizable type of swaggering masculinity, but the word now sounds distinctly old-fashioned and mainly British.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laddishness come from?
The word is formed from the older British noun “laddie,” meaning a young man, together with the adjective-forming suffix “-ish” and the noun-forming suffix “-ness.” Its development reflects the older use of “laddish” for behavior considered characteristic of a young man, especially boastful or swaggering behavior. The related words “lad” and “laddie” share the same general historical association with young men.
Related word forms
How laddishness is actually used
Chiefly British and now somewhat old-fashioned. It is usually critical, and often implies immature, boisterous, or male chauvinistic behavior.
Easily confused with laddishness
Laddish is an adjective describing behavior or attitudes, whereas laddishness is the noun naming that behavior or attitude.