tomboyish
Not stereotypically feminine
Tomboyish describes a girl or woman whose appearance, interests, or behavior align with what's traditionally considered masculine—preferring rough play, sports, or practical clothing over dresses and dolls.
The term carries less weight than it once did as gender expectations have loosened: She had a tomboyish streak growing up.
It can also describe style: a tomboyish haircut.
Resembling a young lad
- unfeminineContrary to womanly traits
- athleticPhysically strong and active
- sportyStylishly active-looking
- rough-and-tumbleDisorderly, physical, unpolished
adventurous · outdoorsy · rugged · scrappy · tough · boisterous · rowdy · competitive
Having much vigor
- spunkyCourageous and lively
- feistyAggressively spirited
- livelyAnimated and energetic
- pluckyCourageous despite disadvantage
vivacious · exuberant · high-spirited · dynamic · animated · peppy · sprightly · zestful
Openly resisting control
- rebelliousResisting authority or control
- unconventionalDeparting from standard practice
- independentFree from external control
- free-spiritedUninhibited by social expectations
headstrong · willful · stubborn · unruly · contrary · bold · audacious · brazen
Having brief fur
- ponytailedHair fastened behind head
- sneakeredWearing athletic shoes
- casualRelaxed and informal
- sportyStylishly active-looking
unkempt · tousled · unstyled · unadorned · scruffy · comfortable · functional
boyish
Resembling a young lad
- unfeminineContrary to womanly traits
- athleticPhysically strong and active
- sportyStylishly active-looking
rough-and-tumble · adventurous · outdoorsy · rugged · scrappy · tough · boisterous · rowdy · competitive · daring
energetic
Having much vigor
plucky · vivacious · exuberant · high-spirited · dynamic · animated · peppy · sprightly · zestful · enthusiastic
defiant
Openly resisting control
- rebelliousResisting authority or control
- unconventionalDeparting from standard practice
- independentFree from external control
free-spirited · headstrong · willful · stubborn · unruly · contrary · bold · audacious · brazen · cheeky
short-haired
Having brief fur
- ponytailedHair fastened behind head
- sneakeredWearing athletic shoes
- casualRelaxed and informal
sporty · unkempt · tousled · unstyled · unadorned · scruffy · comfortable · functional