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Bluestocking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bluestocking

[หˆbluหหŒstษ’kษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

historical context

The term 'bluestocking' originally referred to a group of intellectual women in the 18th century who gathered for literary discussions and meetings. They were often associated with the Blue Stockings Society, which celebrated women's education and cultural involvement. The term has since evolved to encompass any educated woman, often with connotations of being overly serious or bookish. Today, 'bluestocking' can imply a strong commitment to intellectual pursuits, sometimes at the expense of social norms.

Synonyms

educated woman, feminist, intellectual woman.

Examples of usage

  • She was considered a bluestocking for her avid readership and intellectual debates.
  • In the 18th century, many bluestockings challenged traditional roles of women.
  • Her bluestocking demeanor often intimidated her male colleagues.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • In the 18th and 19th centuries, bluestockings often hosted salons where intellectual discussions took place.
  • Notable bluestockings included Mary Wollstonecraft, an early advocate for women's rights, and Elizabeth Montagu, a central figure in the Blue Stockings Society.
  • The movement marked a shift in women's roles, moving them into the public sphere of intellect and conversation.

Literature

  • The term is frequently used in literature to describe characters who are bookish and independent, like Jo March from 'Little Women'.
  • Bluestockings have appeared in many novels to challenge traditional female roles, often embodying strength and intelligence.
  • Books and plays in the 19th century often portrayed bluestocking women either as admirable or as eccentric, reflecting societal views.

Cultural Impact

  • The modern feminist movement often references bluestockings as precursors to womenโ€™s liberation and advocacy for education.
  • Bluestocking clubs still exist today, focusing on literature and intellectual discussions among women.
  • The term can be both empowering and derogatory, indicating its complex place in societyโ€™s view of intelligent women.

Pop Culture

  • In contemporary media, bluestockings appear as characters who break stereotypes, such as in films like 'The Imitation Game'.
  • Shows like 'Pride and Prejudice' portray bluestocking traits in characters like Elizabeth Bennet, further popularizing the term.
  • The concept has evolved into a broader celebration of smart and ambitious women in various forms of entertainment.

Origin of 'bluestocking'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originated in the 18th century, deriving from the blue worsted stockings worn by members of a literary group in England.
  • The Blue Stockings Society was established in 1750, promoting female education and discourse in literature and arts.
  • Initially, it was a playful term, but over time, it became associated with women who challenged societal norms.

The term 'bluestocking' originated in the 18th century in England, during a time of significant social and cultural change. It initially referred to a specific group of women who formed a literary society, notably patronized by prominent figures like Elizabeth Montagu and other intellectuals. The 'blue stockings' wore blue worsted stockings to distinguish themselves from the more formal black stockings worn by the upper-class men, who were often seen as elitist. This movement was crucial during a time when women's education was limited and often discouraged. As these women sought a space to discuss literature, philosophy, and culture, they challenged the conventional expectations of femininity. Over time, the word evolved to describe any educated or scholarly woman, often portrayed with a hint of derision in popular culture, encapsulating the tension between intellect and traditional female roles.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,012, 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.