Definition of: manly

(man′lē) adjective ·li·er, ·li·est
Possessing the characteristics of a true man, as strength, frankness, and intrepidity.
—adverb Archaic In a manner befitting a man.
—man′li·ly adverb
—man′li·ness noun Synonyms: manful, manlike, mannish. Manlike may mean only having the outward appearance or semblance of a man, or it may be substantially equivalent to manly. Manly refers to all the qualities and traits worthy of a man; manful especially to the valor and prowess that become a man; we speak of a manful struggle; manly decision; we say manly gentleness, or tenderness; we could not say manful tenderness. Mannish is a depreciatory word referring to the mimicry or parade of some superficial qualities of manhood; as, a mannish woman. See MASCULINE.