WOMAN

Definition of WOMAN

WOMAN Noun

The word woman is primarily a noun referring to an adult female human. It signifies gender and is commonly used in various social, cultural, and biological contexts.

As a noun, woman describes an adult female human being. For example, “She is a strong, independent woman,” highlights the individual’s gender and attributes.

Biological and Gender Context: Biologically, a woman is characterized by female reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics. Gender-wise, the term encompasses the identity, roles, and experiences associated with being female. For example, “The woman’s health clinic offers specialized services,” indicates a focus on female biology and healthcare.

Social and Cultural Roles: The roles and expectations of women vary widely across different cultures and societies. These roles can be influenced by tradition, religion, and social norms. For example, “In many cultures, women play a central role in family and community life,” reflects the diverse responsibilities often assigned to women.

Historical Significance: The status and rights of women have evolved significantly throughout history. From the fight for suffrage to the ongoing struggle for gender equality, the term woman is deeply connected to social and political movements. For example, “The women’s suffrage movement was pivotal in granting voting rights to women,” illustrates a key historical milestone.

Modern Perspectives: Today, the concept of a woman is more inclusive and recognizes the diversity of experiences and identities among women. This includes a greater awareness of issues such as gender identity, intersectionality, and feminism. For example, “Modern discussions on women’s rights often include a focus on intersectionality,” acknowledges the complexity of contemporary gender discourse.

Legal and Economic Aspects: The legal status and economic opportunities available to women vary globally. In many regions, significant strides have been made toward gender equality, while in others, women still face substantial barriers. For example, “Legislation to promote equal pay for women is essential in closing the gender wage gap,” emphasizes ongoing legal and economic challenges.

Cultural Representation: Women are represented in various forms of media and art, reflecting both historical stereotypes and progressive portrayals. The depiction of women in literature, film, and other media shapes public perceptions and influences societal attitudes. For example, “The portrayal of women in media has evolved to show more diverse and empowered characters,” shows the shift in cultural representation.

In conclusion, the term woman primarily refers to an adult female human and encompasses a wide range of biological, social, cultural, and historical contexts. Understanding the multifaceted nature of what it means to be a woman is essential in addressing gender-related issues and promoting equality. The evolving perspectives on womanhood continue to shape and reflect societal values and progress.

Examples of WOMAN in a sentence

  • A woman is an adult female human.
  • Women play vital roles in various aspects of society, from leadership to caregiving.
  • Many women have made significant contributions to science, literature, and art throughout history.
  • In many cultures, women have fought for and achieved greater rights and equality.
  • A pregnant woman undergoes physiological changes to support the development of her baby.
  • Women excel in diverse professions, including medicine, engineering, and business.
  • The empowerment of women is crucial for achieving gender equality worldwide.
  • Women often face unique challenges and discrimination based on gender.

Origin of WOMAN

The term woman has a rich etymology that reflects its historical development and cultural significance in language and society.

  • Etymology and Origins: The word woman derives from the Old English “wīfmann,” where “wīf” meant “female” and “mann” meant “human being” or “person.” Over time, “wīfmann” evolved into the modern English word “woman,” specifically referring to an adult human female.
  • Historical Evolution: In Old English, “wīf” originally meant “wife” or “woman,” while “mann” referred to a person of either gender. The compound “wīfmann” denoted a female person, distinguishing it from “wer” (man) for males.
  • Cultural and Social Roles: Throughout history, the concept of womanhood has been shaped by cultural norms, legal rights, and societal expectations, influencing roles in family, work, politics, and religion.
  • Language and Representation: The term “woman” is used to describe individuals of the female sex across languages and cultures, reflecting shared human experiences and diversity.
  • Contemporary Context: In modern usage, “woman” encompasses a broad spectrum of identities, experiences, and perspectives, emphasizing equality, empowerment, and advocacy for women’s rights globally.

The term woman exemplifies the dynamic evolution of language and social constructs, reflecting the ongoing quest for gender equality and recognition of women’s contributions to history, culture, and society.

Synonyms

  • Female
  • Lady
  • Girl
  • Womanhood
  • Feminine
  • Dame
  • Gal
  • Female person

Antonyms

  • Man
  • Male
  • Gentleman
  • Boy
  • Masculine
  • Guy
  • Lad
  • Male person

Related

  • Feminism
  • Gender
  • Empowerment
  • Sisterhood
  • Femininity
  • Equality
  • Women’s rights
  • Gender equality

🌐 🇬🇧 WOMAN in other languages

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