What does milksop mean?
A milksop is a person considered timid, weak, or unwilling to take a firm stand. The expression is especially applied to a man characterized as soft, ineffectual, or insufficiently masculine, although it can be used more broadly of anyone perceived as lacking courage or resolve. Its overt connotation is strongly disparaging, and the word may sound old-fashioned, exaggerated, or intentionally comic. Historically, the expression developed from the idea of someone or something seeming to require milk rather than stronger nourishment, then came to refer to an allegedly effeminate man. In modern usage, the gender-specific and gendered associations have become less suitable for ordinary criticism, and the term is more likely to occur in literary discussion, historical writing, or deliberately provocative speech. It is also sometimes used humorously to suggest that someone is excessively cautious or reluctant to take action.
nounA person regarded as weak, timid, or lacking in courage and resolve. The term is pejorative and is especially used of a man considered overly soft or effeminate.
- A person considered weak, timid, or insufficiently resolute, especially a man characterized as soft or effeminate.
"His opponents dismissed him as a milksop rather than confront him directly."
"The new apprentice was no milksop; within a month, he was challenging the senior staff."
"The critic dismissed the hero as a milksop rather than acknowledging the circumstances that shaped his choices."
Used for more than one person regarded as weak or timid.
"The novel portrays the hero's brothers as frightened milksops who avoid every confrontation."
What began as a jab at masculine toughness has become a broader insult for anyone accused of being timid or weak.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does milksop come from?
Milksop combines milk with sop, the older word for a softened or soaked piece of food. The compound originally carried a disparaging suggestion of softness or effeminacy, particularly when applied to a man considered insufficiently masculine. Its development reflects the older figurative idea of milk as weak, delicate, or unsuitable nourishment for a robust adult.
Related word forms
How milksop is actually used
This is a derogatory term and can sound old-fashioned, theatrical, or deliberately comic. Its association with effeminacy and supposed lack of masculine toughness reflects a dated stereotype and is often inappropriate in contemporary use.
Easily confused with milksop
A milkman delivers milk, whereas a milksop is an insulting term for someone considered weak or timid.
A sop is a soaked or softened piece of food, while a milksop is a person disparaged for weakness.