Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Lacking in courage and manly strength and resolution; contemptibly fearful: Describes a person or behavior that is considered cowardly, weak, or timid, failing to meet traditional expectations of male bravery.
   • Not possessing qualities befitting a man: Refers to characteristics, actions, or appearances that are judged as not conforming to societal or traditional standards of masculinity.

2. Adverb:

   • Without qualities thought to befit a man: Describes the manner of doing something in a way that is considered not masculine.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • His refusal to stand up for his friend was seen as an unmanly act of cowardice.
  • The culture unfairly labeled showing emotion as unmanly behavior.
• Adverb (less common):
  • He was accused of behaving unmanly by fleeing from the challenge.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a critical or pejorative sense and is closely tied to traditional, and often outdated, gender stereotypes. Its use can be controversial as societal views on masculinity evolve.
• It can describe not just actions but also objects or attributes metaphorically:

Variants and Related Words

• Unmanliness (noun): The state or quality of being unmanly.
  • His unmanliness was a constant source of criticism from his father.
• Manly (adjective): Possessing qualities traditionally associated with men, such as courage and strength. (Antonym)

Synonyms

• Cowardly: Lacking courage.
• Effeminate: Having qualities or characteristics more often associated with women (often used pejoratively).
• Timid: Showing a lack of courage or confidence.
• Weak: Lacking physical or moral strength.

Antonyms

• Manly
• Courageous
• Brave
• Virile

Notes on Usage

• The term unmanly is subjective and based on cultural norms. Its application is decreasing in modern, inclusive language due to its reinforcement of rigid gender roles.
• It is important to consider the potentially offensive nature of this word, as it judges behavior against a specific, often narrow, ideal of masculinity.

Adjective

1. lacking in courage and manly strength and resolution; contemptibly fearful
2. not possessing qualities befitting a man

Adverb

1. without qualities thought to befit a man