Metrosexual Meaning: Here’s What It Means and How To Use It

In urban planning, metro is short for metropolitan, which describes cities with a high population density. In the world of fashion, metrosexual is more complicated. 

The term has become so widespread — and its meaning so loose — that it’s hard to define precisely what metrosexual means. The simple answer is that a metrosexual person, unlike a typical macho male character, is a male who is more in touch with his feminine side by taking pride in his appearance and grooming habits. 

If you want to know whether or not your husband or boyfriend qualifies as metrosexual (or if you are one), keep reading. 

What Does Metrosexual Mean? 

A metrosexual is a modern man who is in touch with his feminine side. This could mean he dresses up, uses moisturizer, or enjoys shopping. The term was first used in 1994 by journalists Carol Salter and Mark Simpson to describe David Beckham: “He has had his hair cut and colored like a woman’s. He is wearing makeup. His eyebrows are plucked.”

The term metrosexual started being used much more commonly in the early 2000s, and it refers to straight men who are more interested in their appearance than other men. Because of this interest, they have become a popular target for advertisers looking for new customers. 

In fact, many companies have used this term as part of an advertising campaign or marketing strategy to sell products.

Metrosexual men can also be found using social media sites like Facebook to post photos of their new outfits or shoes they bought on vacation. They enjoy cooking and baking, they may wear makeup (for themselves), they use perfumes and colognes, and more. In short, these men care for themselves by looking good!

Metrosexuals people are more likely to be straight than gay or bi, but they still skew male. While it’s challenging to estimate the metro population, a survey from the early 2000s suggests that about 30% of men identified as a metrosexual. Today, this number is probably even higher.

Metrosexuals also tend to be younger than average — the average age of self-described metro men was 27 when this survey was conducted — and urban: almost half lived in cities at the time of their survey. 

Metrosexual and Sexuality in General

What does it mean to be a metrosexual? It’s not about your sexual orientation or gender role. Metrosexuality is about personal grooming, and plenty of straight guys still have a taste for pedicures, massages, and eyeliner. 

You might think that people who are into personal grooming are just gay men trying to fit into a specific stereotype. Still, no matter what other people tell you, there’s nothing wrong with being interested in your appearance as long as it makes you feel good!

In conclusion: don’t let anyone tell you how your sexuality should define who you are or what problems you can solve. You can be straight and still have a taste for pedicures, waxings, the best shops, massages, and eyeliner! 

How Are Metrosexuals Perceived in Society? 

When it comes down to it, there are many different perceptions of metrosexuals in the world today. For some more closed-minded people, the idea of a heterosexual male focusing on their personal appearance dramatically is uncomfortable. Generally, most cultures have an image of a heterosexual man that doesn’t care much for their unique appearance, much like a footballer or someone who spends most of their time in gyms. Some people even think being metrosexual is a sign of narcissism and anti-hetero sentiments. 

However, as time goes on, the typical metrosexual is becoming more and more accepted in society, and even though it’s a new word, metrosexual is becoming well known. To many people, it’s just another fashion fad, much like retrosexual and spornosexual. These people base their ideas and fashion identities off of being different from the rest of society and leaning into their passions and ideals. 

While the word’s etymology has a basis in sexuality, the reality is that most metrosexuals believe that their fashion doesn’t have anything to do with their sexuality. Many straight people are metrosexual, even if the clothes and fashion they go after are relatively effeminate. This has piqued the interest of many news organizations, including The New York Times. 

Fundamentally, if you want to wear something, you have the freedom too! Nobody can stop you from expressing your individuality and passions, so long as they aren’t actively harming other people. If you want to lean into your favorite aesthetics as a human, feel free to do so! 

Conclusion

The term metrosexual perfectly illustrates the power of language to evolve. As society changes, so does our vocabulary. The fact that it’s no longer unusual for men to be interested in fashion and grooming shows how gender roles have changed in recent years. If you want to know what it means to be a modern man today, the definition of metrosexual is a great starting point. 

People have been using blogs for years to share their thoughts with others. Nowadays, the blog has become an essential tool for businesses of all types. With a blog, you can promote your products or services, establish yourself as an industry expert and connect with clients personally. It’s also great to brainstorm new ideas for your business and create collaboration and relationship-building opportunities. 

While developing your own blog might seem intimidating, it’s easier than you think. The Word Counter is one of the most powerful tools for developing the skills you’ll need to succeed. Check out our latest articles right here! 

Sources: 

Metrosexual Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com

METROSEXUAL | Cambridge English Dictionary

Metrosexual definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary