Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Resembling a woman in appearance, qualities, or behavior: Having characteristics typically associated with women.
   • Suitable to or characteristic of a woman: Pertaining to the traditional or stereotypical attributes of women.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The statue had a surprisingly womanlike grace in its posture.
  • He possessed a womanlike sensitivity that made him a great listener.

Advanced Usage

• Used in formal or literary contexts: The term is often used in descriptive, anthropological, or artistic discussions to denote resemblance.
  • The ancient carvings depicted deities with both manlike and womanlike features.

Variants and Related Words

• Womanly (adj): Having qualities traditionally associated with a woman, especially positive ones like grace or nurturing. (e.g., )
• Feminine (adj): Pertaining to qualities or appearance traditionally associated with women. (e.g., )
• Effeminate (adj): (Typically used of a man) Having traits or an appearance traditionally considered feminine. Often carries a negative connotation.

Synonyms

• Feminine
• Ladylike
• Matronly (specifically suggests qualities of a mature woman)

Antonyms

• Manlike
• Masculine
• Unwomanly

Notes on Usage

• Context Sensitivity: While "womanlike" is a descriptive term, its use can sometimes be perceived as outdated or overly focused on stereotypes. "Feminine" is a more common and neutral synonym in modern usage.
• Part of Speech: The word can also function as a noun, though this usage is very rare and archaic, meaning "the trait of being womanly." The adjectival form is standard.

Adjective

1. resembling a woman
   • a womanlike stone image

Noun

1. the trait of being womanly; having the characteristics of an adult female