Male

Definition

Male is both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a member of the species that produces sperm for reproduction. As an adjective, it describes characteristics or attributes associated with men or male animals.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /meɪl/
• Respelling: MAYL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /meɪl/
• Respelling: MAYL

Etymology

The word "male" originates from Latin "mas," meaning "man or male," which transitioned through Old French as "masle" before entering Middle English. Its usage to denote biological sex has been consistent since the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Malehood (noun)
• Maleness (noun)
• Malevolent (adjective)
• Maladaptive (adjective)
• Malediction (noun)

Synonyms

• Masculine
• Manly
• Man

Antonyms

• Female
• Feminine
• None

Usage

The term "male" is commonly used in biological, social, and cultural contexts. For example, "The male lion protects his pride," or "This policy primarily affects male employees."

Related Terms

• Gender: A classification based on social and cultural differences rather than biological ones.
• Masculinity: Traits associated with males, often culturally defined.
• Sex: Biological differences between male and female organisms.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A member of a species that produces sperm for reproduction: Refers to the biological role in reproduction.
  • Example: "The male of the species is often larger and more colorful."

Adjective

• Relating to or characteristic of men or boys: Describes traits or behaviors associated with males.
  • Example: "The clothing line is designed specifically for the male demographic."
• Relating to the biological sex that produces sperm: Refers to physiological or anatomical features.
  • Example: "The male bird has brighter plumage to attract a mate."