Word
incel
Meanings
a man who describes himself as involuntarily celibate and identifies with that label
a member of an online subculture centered on resentment about dating and sexual rejection (often used critically)
Definition
An incel is a man who describes himself as unable to find a sexual or romantic partner despite wanting one.
An incel is a man who says he is “involuntarily celibate,” meaning he wants romantic or sexual relationships but believes he cannot get them. The word is often used in online spaces and can also refer to people who identify with incel communities. In many contexts, it carries a negative tone because some such communities are linked to hostility toward women and toward people who are seen as successful in dating.
Examples
- He described himself as an incel and blamed strangers for his lack of dating experience.
- After reading the forum posts, I realized the writer was using incel language to frame every setback as proof of conspiracy.
- The journalist avoided sensationalism while explaining how incel communities can amplify resentment online.
- They challenged his incel worldview by pushing him to build friendships and take responsibility for his behavior.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use incel to mean “single person,” but it specifically refers to someone who identifies as involuntarily celibate (often in an online subculture).
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