male

word

/ˈmeɪɫ/
mayl
/mˈeɪl/
mayl

Definition

A male person or animal is one that belongs to the sex that typically produces sperm. The word can be used as an adjective or a noun, and it is often used in biology, official forms, and everyday descriptions.

Usage & Nuances

In everyday English, 'male' is neutral in medical, scientific, and formal contexts, especially on forms ('male/female'). For people, 'man' or 'boy' is often more natural in casual conversation. For animals, 'male' is very common. Do not confuse it with 'masculine', which refers to style, qualities, or grammar, not biological sex.

Example Sentences

The baby is male.

basic

We have one male cat and one female cat.

basic

Please check the box for male or female.

basic

The doctor said the bird is male, but I still can't tell the difference.

natural

Most of the male students signed up for the soccer team this year.

natural

On the form, I accidentally clicked male instead of female.

natural