male

Male is a biological sex that occurs in many organisms, including humans. It refers to individuals that typically produce small, motile gametes (sperm) and often have chromosomal configurations associated with the male sex, such as XY in many mammals. The specific sex-determination system varies across species, but the term is used in biology to distinguish the sex of an organism from female.

In humans, sex is usually linked to chromosomes, with males commonly having XY and females XX, though there are intersex variations and other chromosomal patterns that can occur. The male reproductive system typically includes the testes, which produce sperm and secrete androgens such as testosterone. Puberty normally brings about secondary sexual characteristics driven by hormones, such as a deeper voice, facial and body hair, and increased muscle mass. Males contribute half of the genetic material to offspring through sperm during fertilization.

Fertility depends on the proper production and function of sperm and the reproductive system. There are medical conditions that can affect male fertility or sex development, including disorders of testosterone production or action, and various intersex conditions where anatomy does not fit simple categories.

In common usage, the term “male” is a biological descriptor, while “man” is typically used to refer to an adult human who identifies as male in a social or gender sense. The distinction between sex (male/female) and gender (man/woman) is recognized in scientific and policy contexts.