Bitch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐โ๐ฆบ
bitch
[bษชtส ]
Definitions
derogatory term
The term 'bitch' is often used as a derogatory term for a woman, implying that she is aggressive, unpleasant, or overly assertive. It can also be used within certain contexts among friends as a term of endearment or camaraderie, mostly among women. In another use, it can refer to a female dog, wolf, fox, or otter. The word has been reappropriated by some in the feminist movement to diminish its negative connotations. However, it remains highly divisive, with strong reactions depending on cultural and social contexts.
Synonyms
female dog, nag, termagant, witch.
Examples of usage
- She is such a bitch for saying that.
- Bitch, please! You know it's true.
- My neighbor has a loud dog that barks like a bitch.
- In the play, she is portrayed as a powerful bitch who dominates the scene.
complaining
To 'bitch' can also be used as a verb, meaning to complain or grumble about something in a persistent way. This usage is often informal and can be directed at situations, people, or events. The term often implies that the person complaining is being tedious or overly negative about it. It can be common in workplace settings or casual conversations.
Synonyms
complain, gripe, grumble, whine.
Examples of usage
- Stop bitching about the weather.
- He was just bitching over what happened yesterday.
- They spent the whole meeting bitching about the new policy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In music, the term has been popularized in songs by artists like Meredith Brooks and Nicki Minaj, often as a form of empowerment.
- Television shows like 'The Real Housewives' have portrayed women using the term amongst themselves, blending humor with confrontation.
- It has been featured in various forms of media, from literature to films, sometimes challenging traditional portrayals of femininity.
Psychology
- The use of derogatory terms can reflect deeper societal views on gender and power dynamics, often perpetuating stereotypes.
- Research suggests that derogatory terms impact self-perception and social status, particularly among women.
- When used in an assertive context, some women reclaim the term, spinning it into a symbol of strength and defiance.
Literature
- Various authors have used the term in their works to explore themes of femininity and aggression, challenging traditional roles.
- The term often appears in feminist literature, raising discussions about languageโs influence over gender identity and societal expectations.
- In classic literature, it has been used to portray strong female characters, showcasing their determination against societal norms.
Sociology
- The term has evolved, and its usage can depend heavily on context; in some circles, it may even be used affectionately among friends.
- Gendered language like this often reveals societal perceptions and can indicate shifting views on femininity and assertiveness.
- Discussions around the term are increasingly relevant in gender studies, as it reflects larger conversations about empowerment and respect.
Origin of 'bitch'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Old English 'bicce' meaning a female dog, dating back to around 1000 AD.
- In the 16th century, it started being used in a derogatory sense to refer to women, reflecting societal attitudes of the time.
- In animal breeding, 'bitch' is a technical term still used today to describe a female dog, showing the word's diverse usage.
The word 'bitch' has Old English origins, derived from the term 'bicce', which means 'female dog'. It has been in use since the medieval period, primarily in reference to female canines. Over time, the term took on a derogatory meaning when applied to women, often implying that they were aggressive, unpleasant, or not behaving in a traditionally 'feminine' manner. The derogatory use of 'bitch' started to appear in the 15th century, showing the inherent misogyny that has persisted through the centuries. In modern times, the word has seen a form of reappropriation, particularly by some feminist groups who seek to reclaim it and strip it of its negative connotations. The flexibility of the term, along with its varied uses in different contexts, has made 'bitch' a complex word in the English language, often seen as both offensive and empowering, depending on the speaker and the context.