The word "emasculate" is spelled e-m-a-s-c-u-l-a-t-e. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ɪˈmæskjʊleɪt/. It is comprised of three syllables with the primary stress falling on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced /ɪ/ as in "sit", while the second syllable is pronounced /ˈmæsk/ which rhymes with "ask". The final syllable is pronounced /jʊleɪt/ which sounds like "you-layt". This word means to weaken or deprive someone or something of their masculinity.
Emasculate, a verb, is defined as the act of castrating, depriving, weakening, or reducing the traits or qualities associated with masculinity in someone or something. It is derived from the Latin word "emasculare," composed of "e-" meaning "out" and "masculus" meaning "male."
When used in the context of a physical act, emasculate refers to the surgical removal or destruction of the testicles, resulting in sterilization or impotence in males. Historically, emasculation has been practiced on humans and animals, commonly as a way to control their behavior, fertility, or aggressiveness.
In a metaphorical or symbolic sense, emasculate is often employed to describe actions or situations that undermine or diminish traditionally masculine attributes, such as strength, courage, virility, or authority. For instance, a male subjected to constant criticism, belittlement, or disempowerment may be said to be emasculated. Similarly, emasculate can be applied to the process of reducing or taking away the power, effectiveness, or significance of something, such as an argument, decision, or institution.
Emasculate, as a derogatory term, is sometimes used to challenge someone's masculinity, implying that their actions or behavior are weak, submissive, or lacking in strength. However, it is essential to recognize that using this term in such a context can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce toxic masculinity.
To geld or castrate; to weaken; to render effeminate.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "emasculate" originates from the Latin term "ēmasculāre", which is derived from two components: "e" (a variant of "ex" meaning "out" or "without") and "masculus" (meaning "male" or "masculine"). Therefore, "emasculate" can be interpreted as "to make or render without male qualities".