(n) the trait of being effeminate (derogatory of a man), Syn. sissiness, unmanliness, effeminateness, softness, womanishness, Example:the students associated science with masculinity and arts with effeminacy; Spartans accused Athenians of effeminateness; he was shocked by the softness of the atmosphere surrounding the young prince, arising from the superfluity of the femininity that guided him