virile
Definitions
Having strength, energy, and a strong sex drive typically associated with men; manly
有男子气概的，雄健的
Vigorous, forceful, and full of energy (of things or actions)
强劲有力的，充满活力的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedvir (man) + -ile (relating to). From Latin virīlis, 'of a man, manly.' Virile is the most literal survivor of vir: it keeps the plain masculine sense — full of manly strength and vigor — before the family leaps into morality (virtue) or abstraction (virtual).
Root vir_man still carries 8 more wordsUsage Guide
- Register: 'virile' is fairly formal/literary and sounds emphatic; in casual speech people say 'manly' or 'macho.'
- Caution: it often carries sexual or physical connotations (virility = sexual potency), so use it carefully when describing a real person.
- Figurative use: a 'virile prose style' or 'virile economy' means vigorous and forceful, not literally male.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The actor was cast for his tall, virile screen presence.
- 2.
The poem celebrates the virile energy of youth.
- 3.
Advertisers often link the car to a virile, adventurous image.
Easily Confused
virile vs masculine vs macho — 'Masculine' is neutral (masculine features, a masculine voice). 'Virile' adds strength, vigor, and often sexual potency — it is a compliment about power. 'Macho' is informal and often negative: aggressively, showily manly.