An adjective used to describe someone or something that possesses one or more of a set of qualities which are normally attributed to men. Masculinity is a secondary trait that boys are supposed to aquire during adolescent development. This quality can be used as social currency and is often asserted during interactions which threaten a sense of male ego. Masculinity can materialize in the form of emotional (insensitivity) and physical strength, a “rough” appearance, deep voice, body hair, etc. A woman who expresses masculnity is described as being a “tomboy” (during childhood), “butch”, or even “a man”, while a male who expresses the same traits most likely will not be described as “masculine” or “manly” unless he is masculine to a very high degree. Masculinity is often seen as a ‘natural’ or ‘inherent’ trait in men, and as boys grow into adulthood it can become a necessary criteria for defining who is and is not “a man”. Men who do not possess enough of this trait are subject to emotional pressure, ridicule, and violence. A lack of masculinity in men is stereotypically attributed to homosexual men, while masculinity present in adult women is seen as a sign of lesbianism.
The binary opposition to Masuline is referred to as “Feminine”.
*This definition was written in the context of American culture.