What does unfeminine mean?
Unfeminine is an adjective meaning not feminine, especially not displaying the appearance, behaviour, or style traditionally associated with women. Its use often carries an evaluative implication: a person, garment, object, or design may be called unfeminine because it is judged to conflict with conventional expectations of femininity. In discussions of clothing, architecture, language, or conduct, the adjective can describe something perceived as masculine, severe, awkward, or otherwise outside those expectations. The term may be reported neutrally when analysing such judgments, but applying it directly to a woman can sound judgmental and reinforce stereotypes about how women should look or behave. It can also be used more broadly to describe anything considered unsuitable for women. Because its meaning depends heavily on social expectations rather than a fixed set of features, unfeminine is especially useful when discussing the cultural standards that a speaker or writer assumes. It contrasts with feminine and is often related in meaning to masculine or mannish.
adjectiveNot having characteristics traditionally regarded as feminine, especially in appearance, behaviour, or style.
- Lacking characteristics traditionally associated with women, especially in appearance, behaviour, or style.
"She rejected the dress as unfeminine because of its severe, boxy cut."
"The designer was criticized for creating an unfeminine silhouette with its broad shoulders and rigid construction."
"The critic described the film’s humour as unfeminine, reflecting the conventional expectations of the period."
Once used to police women’s appearance, it now often reveals the gender assumptions behind the judgment.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unfeminine come from?
Unfeminine is an English formation combining the prefix un- with the adjective feminine, meaning “not feminine.” English borrowed feminine from Old French feminin and Latin femineus, “female, womanly,” which was derived from the Latin noun femina, “woman.” English words such as female, femininity, and feminize reflect developments connected with the same Latin root.
How unfeminine is actually used
The adjective is traditionally evaluative and may sound judgmental or sexist when applied directly to a woman because it can reinforce stereotypes about how women should look or behave. It may be used more neutrally when describing a design, garment, performance, or social convention, especially when the cultural assumptions behind the judgment are being discussed.