virile Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite characterized by energy and vigor
    • a virile and ever stronger free society
    • a new and virile leadership
  2. adjective satellite characteristic of a man
    manful; male; manly; manlike.
    • a deep male voice
    • manly sports
  3. adjective (of a male) capable of copulation
    potent.

WordNet


Vi"rile adjective
Etymology
L. virilis, fr. vir a man; akin to AS. wer: cf. F. viril. See Werewolf, World, and cf. Decemvir, Virago, Virtue.
Definitions
  1. Having the nature, properties, or qualities, of an adult man; characteristic of developed manhood; hence, masterful; forceful; specifically, capable of begetting; -- opposed to womanly, feminine, and puerile; as, virile age, virile power, virile organs.

Webster 1913