manly Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective possessing qualities befitting a man
    manlike; manful.
  2. adjective satellite characteristic of a man
    manful; male; manlike; virile.
    • a deep male voice
    • manly sports
  3. adverb in a manful manner; with qualities thought to befit a man
    manfully.
    • having said her say Peggy manfully shouldered her burden and prepared to break up yet another home

WordNet


Man"ly adjective
Etymology
Man + -ly. Cf. Manlike.
Wordforms
comparative Manlier ; superlative Manliest
Definitions
  1. Having qualities becoming to a man; not childish or womanish; manlike, esp. brave, courageous, resolute, noble.
    Let's briefly put on manly readiness. Shak.
    Serene and manly, hardened to sustain The load of life. Dryden.
    Syn. -- Bold; daring; brave; courageous; firm; undaunted; hardy; dignified; stately.
Man"ly adverb
Definitions
  1. In a manly manner; with the courage and fortitude of a manly man; as, to act manly.

Webster 1913