Virile Meaning and Definition
Virile
Pronunciation
/ˈvɪrɪl/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Having or showing qualities of masculinity, strength, or vigor; capable of producing an intended or desired effect in a forceful and effective manner.
Examples
- The athlete’s virile performance on the field earned him a standing ovation.
- The politician’s virile speech inspired a sense of hope in the audience.
Synonyms
- Masculine
- Strong
- Potent
Antonyms
- Feminine
- Weak
- Impotent
Additional Information
Virile is often used to describe something or someone that embodies masculine qualities, such as strength, vigor, or potency. This term can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from describing a person’s physical appearance or personality to evaluating the effectiveness of an idea or a plan.
In modern language, the term virile is often used to emphasize the idea of something being powerful, robust, or energetic. However, it is essential to note that this term should be used with caution, as it can sometimes carry connotations of masculinity or male dominance.
Furthermore, the term virile has been used in various cultural and historical contexts to describe masculine ideals or archetypes. For example, in ancient Greek culture, the concept of virility was closely tied to the idea of masculine virtue and excellence.
Etymology
The term virile originates from the Latin word “virilis,” which means “of or pertaining to a man” or “masculine.” This Latin term is derived from the word “vir,” which means “man” or “male.”
Usage Notes
When using the term virile, it is essential to consider the context and the intended meaning. In general, this term is used to describe something or someone that embodies masculine qualities or ideals. However, it is crucial to avoid using this term in a way that reinforces or perpetuates negative stereotypes or biases.
Cultural References
The term virile has appeared in various cultural and artistic works, including literature, film, and music. For example, in literature, the term virile has been used to describe characters or themes in works such as Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” or Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are several idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the term virile, such as “virile laughter” or “virile strength.” These expressions often emphasize the idea of something being powerful, robust, or energetic.
Related Words or Phrases
Some words or phrases that are closely related to the term virile include “masculine,” “strong,” “potent,” and “energetic.” These terms often convey similar ideas or connotations of masculinity or power.
Collocations
The term virile often collocates with words or phrases such as “laughter,” “strength,” “voice,” or “presence.” These collocations often emphasize the idea of something being powerful, robust, or energetic.
Frequency of Use
The term virile is not as commonly used in modern language as some other terms, but it can still be found in various contexts, including literature, art, and everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings or variations of the term virile include “viril,” “virial,” or “virul.” However, the correct spelling of the term is “virile.”