macho

1 of 2

adjective

ma·​cho ˈmä-(ˌ)chō How to pronounce macho (audio)
Synonyms of machonext
: characterized by machismo : aggressively virile

macho

2 of 2

noun

plural machos
1
: one who exhibits machismo
2
: machismo

Synonyms of macho

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Noun

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Examples of macho in a Sentence

Adjective the macho world of football Noun their annual guys-only hunting trip is a celebration of macho
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The headlong pacing allows nary a breather, though there are enough wry notes, character quirks and offbeat details (remote-control doors, goats, a knife fight on a waterbed) to prevent macho monotony from setting in. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 26 July 2026 The macho myth Decades of research undercut Hegseth’s core claim that more testosterone means a more aggressive, dominant, masculine man. — Adam Stanaland, The Conversation, 20 July 2026
Noun
Through the 2010s Vijay gradually refined his socially conscious roles with a macho, virile energy that accelerated his superstardom. — Gitanjali Roy, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Mar. 2026 Hemsworth brings interesting shadings to his role, showcasing the requisite amount of Steve McQueen-style macho cool (the iconic actor is pointedly referenced) but also conveying Davis’ increasing fear and vulnerability. — Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for macho

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Spanish, literally, male, from Latin masculus — more at masculine

First Known Use

Adjective

1949, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1949, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of macho was in 1949

Phrases Containing macho

Rhymes for macho

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Browse Nearby Words

Mach number
macho
machopolyp
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Cite this Entry

“Macho.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/macho. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on macho

Nglish: Translation of macho for Spanish Speakers

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