manly

1 of 2

adverb

man·​ly ˈman-lē 

: in a manly manner

manly

2 of 2

adjective

manlier; manliest

1

: having qualities (such as strength or virility) traditionally associated with men

2

: appropriate in character to a man

manly sports

Synonyms of manly

Adjective

• male
• masculine

Examples of manly in a Sentence

Adjective

He wasn't manly enough to fight.

He has a deep, manly voice.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Charles is dark and brooding, but proficient in manly pursuits. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 1 Oct. 2026

Contrary to their female counterparts, they are viewed as leaders, pursuing their inherent right to be heard and obtain all their manly desires. — Damaly Gonzalez, ARTnews.com, 30 Sep. 2026

And the photos, one of them shirtless, show off his manly physique. — Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 16 Sep. 2026

Here, the wealthy and asthmatic young politician, bolstered by time spent outside among manly men, grew strong enough to meet his destiny. — Rachel Monroe, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

Middle English manli "befitting a man, bravely, resolutely, courteously," going back to Old English manliche, from man man entry 1 + -liche -ly entry 2

Adjective

Middle English manli "human, male, brave, resolute, noble," from man man entry 1 + -li -ly entry 1

First Known Use

Adverb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for manly

• inhumanly
• unmanly

Kids Definition

manly

adjective

man·​ly

ˈman-lē

manlier; manliest

1

: having qualities usually expected of a man : strong

2

: appropriate in character to a man

manly sports

manliness noun