Manseller

Manseller is a term that has emerged in contemporary discussions, particularly within online communities, to describe a person, typically male, who attempts to persuade or manipulate others, often women, into a perceived positive view of themselves or a situation, with the underlying motive of personal gain or advantage. This gain can be social, emotional, or even financial. The behavior is characterized by a calculated approach, employing flattery, manufactured sympathy, or appeals to shared values to create a favorable impression and influence the target's decision-making or emotional state.

The concept of manselling is distinct from genuine kindness or persuasion. It implies a degree of insincerity and a strategic, often subconscious, agenda. The "selling" aspect refers to the presentation of an idealized or misleading version of oneself or an argument, designed to be more appealing and thus more likely to be accepted. Critics of manselling often point to its manipulative nature and the potential for it to exploit trust or vulnerabilities. While the term is relatively new, the behaviors it describes have been observed and critiqued in various social contexts for a long time. It is often discussed in relation to online dating, social media interactions, and workplace dynamics.