what is sigma male

A sigma male is a term used in the manosphere, which is an online community of men who discuss masculinity and male issues. It is a pseudoscientific term used to describe masculine men who exist outside the alpha-beta male hierarchy as a "lone wolf". The term gained prominence within internet culture during the late 2010s and early 2020s, and has inspired numerous memes, graffitis, and videos. Sigma males share many traits in common with the alpha archetype, though their tendency to walk outside of the lines of traditional social dominance hierarchies sets them apart and makes them different. Some of the characteristics of a sigma male include being highly independent, original, and nonconformist, with little or no regard to societal perceptions. They are respected for their abilities and down-to-earth confidence, but they are indifferent to social status. They are also introverted alpha males without a pack, and they tend to be loners.