virile

adjective

vir·​ile ˈvir-əl  ˈvir-ˌī(-ə)l 

 British also  ˈvī(-ə)r-ˌī(-ə)l

1

a

: having traditionally masculine traits especially to a marked degree

b

: characteristic of or associated with men : masculine

2

: having the nature, properties, or qualities of an adult male

specifically : capable of functioning as a male in copulation

3

: energetic, vigorous

4

: masterful, forceful

virilely adverb

Synonyms

• male
• man-size
• man-sized
• manlike
• manly
• mannish
• masculine

Examples of virile in a Sentence

men were once expected to be interested only in such virile activities as hunting

Recent Examples on the Web

As Henry, Damien Lewis is especially virile if privately conflicted and a sentimental drunk. —Elle Carroll, Vulture, 18 June 2024

Pitt’s sculpted physique remains a fitness ideal, and his virile performance is worshiped by pickup artists and incels. —Stephen Kearse, The Atlantic, 15 Oct. 2024

None of the show would carry the same effervescence without Armstrong, who at 52 years old is as virile and agile as ever. —Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 15 Sep. 2024

Judging by the sporting photos on his campaign website, Kennedy would like to be seen as the virile, athletic and spry choice for the White House. —Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle French or Latin; Middle French viril, from Latin virilis, from vir man, male; akin to Old English & Old High German wer man, Sanskrit vīra

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

virile

adjective

vir·​ile ˈvir-əl  ˈvi(ə)r-ˌīl 

1

a

: having the nature, powers, or qualities of an adult male : masculine

b

: having traditionally masculine qualities especially to a noticeable degree

2

a

: vigorous sense 1, energetic

b

: masterful sense 1, forceful

Etymology

from early French viril "having the qualities of a man," from Latin virilis (same meaning), from vir "man, male" — related to virtue

Medical Definition

virile

adjective

vir·​ile

ˈvir-əl, ˈvi(ə)r-ˌīl, British also ˈvī(ə)r-ˌīl

1

: having the nature, properties, or qualities of an adult male

specifically : capable of functioning as a male in copulation

2

: characteristic of or associated with men : masculine