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Bimbo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bimbo

[ˈbɪm.boʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

derogatory term

The term 'bimbo' is often used to describe a young woman who is perceived as attractive but unintelligent or superficial. It is a derogatory term that implies that the individual's beauty is prioritized over their intellect or capabilities. The usage of 'bimbo' can be seen as sexist, reinforcing stereotypes about women and undermining their value based on looks alone. In contemporary culture, the word is sometimes reclaimed or used ironically, but its original connotation remains largely negative.

Synonyms

airhead, babe, dumb blonde, fluff, pretty face.

Examples of usage

  • She was called a bimbo because of her looks.
  • The media often portrays bimbos in a negative light.
  • He joked about her being a bimbo after seeing her latest photos.
  • In the movie, the bimbo character confounds expectations.
  • Critics argue the bimbo stereotype is harmful.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Impact

  • The term gained popularity in American culture during the 1990s, particularly in media and popular songs, often depicting women in a specific stereotype.
  • In 2001, reality TV shows like 'The Simple Life,' featuring Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, sparked discussions on the image of 'bimbos' and challenged perceptions.
  • In contemporary discussions, the term is often critiqued as derogatory, highlighting the negative stereotypes surrounding femininity and intelligence.

Psychology

  • Research shows that using labels like 'bimbo' can perpetuate gender stereotypes and negatively impact self-image and societal perceptions.
  • The labeling can lead to cognitive dissonance where individuals subconsciously adjust their behavior to fit societal expectations based on such stereotypes.
  • The derogatory usage of the term can reinforce harmful archetypes, limiting women's roles in society to beauty rather than capability.

Media Representation

  • Films and television often deploy the 'bimbo' character as a comedic foil, reinforcing the stereotype for entertainment value.
  • Some feminist theorists analyze the 'bimbo' trope as a critique of societal pressures on women's appearances over their intellectual contributions.
  • In literature, authors have used the term to discuss the sexualization and objectification of female characters, acting as a commentary on cultural narratives.

Origin of 'bimbo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bimbo' originated in the early 20th century, originally referring to a male, implying a fool or stupid person.
  • By the 1920s, the term shifted and began to describe young women, often focusing on their looks rather than intelligence.
  • In Italian, 'bimbo' means 'little boy,' showcasing the term's evolution in gender and meaning.

The term 'bimbo' originated in the early 20th century. Its initial usage referred to a male, likely derived from the Italian word 'bambino,' meaning 'child' or 'baby.' However, by the 1920s, the meaning shifted, and it began to be applied to women in the context of beauty and perceived lack of intelligence. The first recorded use of 'bimbo' to describe a woman in a derogatory sense appears in the 1920s. Over time, the word has evolved and has been used variably in popular culture, with portrayals often emphasizing the dual aspects of attractiveness and perceived vapidity. In feminist discourse, 'bimbo' has also been critiqued for its role in perpetuating gender stereotypes and for reducing women to mere aesthetic qualities. The term continues to evoke strong reactions and discussions about gender, power, and the representation of women in society.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,113, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.