Manwhere

Manwhere is a term used in speculative fiction and gender studies to describe a space—physical, social, or fictional—that is perceived as predominantly male in its membership, culture, or authority. The concept can refer to actual places such as clubs, workplaces, or online communities, as well as to metaphorical spaces in narrative worlds where male norms shape behavior and power relations.

The etymology of Manwhere is uncertain. It appears as a portmanteau combining "man" with "where" or "somewhere," and has emerged in late 20th to early 21st century discourse across online essays, critical commentary, and science fiction writing. Its usage varies, sometimes as a descriptive label and other times as a provocative rhetorical device.

In fiction, Manwhere is often depicted as an exclusive enclave—whether a club, a corporate corridor, or a virtual space—where male codes, hierarchies, and rituals are reinforced. In non-fiction and criticism, the term is used to analyze how spaces are gendered, how male bonding is organized, and how exclusionary practices can arise in workplaces, clubs, or online communities.

Critics urge caution in overgeneralizing the idea. While Manwhere can illuminate patterns of gendered space, it may risk essentializing male experience or neglecting intersectional factors such as race, class, and sexuality. Proponents view it as a useful heuristic for examining power dynamics in social settings.

See also: gendered spaces, male bonding, online communities, workplace culture.