English · Word Candidate

manly

/ˈmænli/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: manlier · manliest

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Having the characteristics of a man.

Adjective

Examples

what God or Feend, or ſpirit of the earth, Or Monſter turned to a manly ſhape, Or of what mould or mettel he be made, What ſtar or ſtate ſoeuer gouern him, Let vs put on our meet incountering mindes, […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Having qualities viewed as befitting a man; masculine, manful, courageous, resolute, noble.

Adjective

Examples

Let's briefly put on manly readiness.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

In a way befitting a man.

Adverb

Examples

[Y]ou will not only confer a favor on them but if appointed will add two Officers to our Army who will fight manly to defend their Country.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “manly” mean?

Having the characteristics of a man.

Is “manly” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.