What does male mean?
Male is an English noun and adjective associated with the sex typically characterized by the production of sperm. As a noun, it can refer to a man, a boy, or a male animal, although it is most often used when the sex category itself is relevant. As an adjective, male describes people, animals, organs, reproductive structures, and other features associated with that category; it can also function as a modifier, as in male pronoun or male reproductive system. The word is standard in British and American English and is often more formal or technical than terms chosen in everyday conversation. Although male is grammatically straightforward, it carries a specific biological and classificatory meaning rather than automatically conveying ideas such as masculinity, strength, or social authority. Its history is especially interesting because the word entered Middle English through Old French and ultimately derives from Latin masculus, the same ancient root that gave rise to masculine and masculinity.
A person or animal belonging to the male sex.
"The male was identified by the distinctive markings on its plumage."
When referring to people, male is usually appropriate when specifying a sex category, especially in technical, legal, statistical, or medical contexts.
Belonging to or relating to the male sex, or to people and animals of that sex.
"The report examines the biological differences between male and female specimens."
It is often used attributively, including in technical compounds such as male reproductive system.
The standard plural of the noun male is males.
"The exhibit distinguishes adult males from juveniles."
The word male entered English through Old French and ultimately comes from Latin masculus, the root behind masculine and masculinity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does male come from?
The English word male came into Middle English through Old French male, a form borrowed from Latin masculus, meaning “of the male sex.” The Latin root also underlies masculine and related words describing qualities associated traditionally with men. The modern English noun and adjective developed from the same inherited form and have long been used both independently and as a modifier.
Related word forms
How male is actually used
As a noun, male usually refers to a person, though it can also refer to a male animal. In contemporary usage, it identifies a sex category and should not automatically be taken to imply masculinity, social dominance, or any particular personality trait.
Easily confused with male
Male refers to a person or animal of the male sex, whereas mail refers to postal correspondence or protective armor.
Male is an adjective or noun related to sex, whereas mane is the long hair around a horse's or lion's neck.