Definition

Not having qualities traditionally associated with women; unfeminine.

Example

She was often criticized for her unwomanly behavior in a society that valued traditional gender roles.

Conversation

I heard some people say that being strong is unwomanly.

That's ridiculous! Strength is not limited to any gender.

I know, right? It just feels so outdated to say that.

Absolutely! Everyone should be able to express their strength, no matter what.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unwomanly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "womanly" (from "woman" (from Old English *wīfmann*, meaning female human) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in the manner of). The word "unwomanly" means not in the manner of a woman or lacking qualities traditionally associated with women.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'womanly' to remember that 'unwomanly' describes something that does not have the qualities typically associated with women.

Visually Confused Words