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Definition of manful
manful
/ˈmæn.fəl/
man · ful
Adverb:manfully
manful Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
2
manful Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Possessing or displaying courage, resolution, and steadfastness in the face of difficulty or adversity.
Example
"The rescue crew made a manful effort to clear the blocked mountain pass before the storm arrived."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for manful Antonyms
View all antonyms for manfulWord Nuance & Usage
While 'manly' generally describes traits or appearances traditionally associated with men, 'manful' specifically emphasizes bravery, resolve, and steadfastness in the face of adversity (often used in phrases like 'a manful effort').
• Rhymes for manful
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English around the 13th century from the noun 'man' and the suffix '-ful', originally meaning courageous, noble, or resolute.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Manful. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/manful