Meaning & use
emasculate
Last updated
To deprive someone or something of power, strength, or influence; to weaken.
See it in a sentence
Critics argued that the amendment would emasculate the agency's ability to enforce regulations.
He felt emasculated by his boss's constant public criticism.
A note on using this word
Although the word literally derives from removing masculine traits, it is now most commonly used to describe stripping any person, institution, or law of its power.
Words with a similar meaning
weakenundermine
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “emasculate”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.