Definition

To remove or reduce feminine traits, qualities, or characteristics from someone or something.

Example

The new policy aimed to defeminize the workplace by promoting a more neutral dress code.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I read an interesting article about how some people think society tries to defeminize women.

Really? That sounds provocative. What was the main argument?

It suggested that media often portrays women in ways that strip away their feminine qualities.

That’s a valid point; I can see how that affects perceptions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defeminize → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down from or away) and "feminus" (from Latin, meaning woman or female). The word "defeminize" means to remove feminine qualities or characteristics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') qualities associated with 'women' ('feminus') — that's why defeminize means to take away feminine traits.

Visually Confused Words