Chairwoman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👩💼
chairwoman
[ˈtʃɛːwʊmən ]
Definition
leadership
A woman who presides over a meeting, committee, or organization. She is responsible for ensuring that the meeting runs smoothly, that all members have an opportunity to voice their opinions, and that decisions are made fairly and efficiently.
Synonyms
chair, chairperson, president.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chairwoman |
Use this term when referring to a female leader of a committee, board, or meeting. This term is specifically gendered.
|
| chairperson |
Use this term as a gender-neutral alternative to 'chairman' and 'chairwoman'. It is formal and inclusive.
|
| chair |
Use this term as a gender-neutral designation for the leader of a committee, board, or meeting. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
|
| president |
Use this term when referring to the leader of a country, organization, or company. This word carries significant authority and responsibility.
|
Examples of usage
- She was elected as the chairwoman of the board of directors.
- The chairwoman called the meeting to order and outlined the agenda for the day.
- The chairwoman's role is crucial in maintaining order and facilitating discussion within the committee.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Significance
- The first known use of 'chairwoman' dates back to the 19th century, when women began to hold formal positions in organizations.
- Throughout the 20th century, women in leadership roles became more common, challenging societal norms and paving the way for future generations.
- Famous chairwomen, like Ruth Bader Ginsburg in organizations promoting legal equality, have made significant contributions to gender equality.
Pop Culture
- In film and television, strong female characters often appear as chairwomen, portraying leadership and determination, such as Miranda Priestly in 'The Devil Wears Prada.'
- Real-life chairwomen, like Mary Barra of General Motors, have become symbols of women's empowerment in corporate culture.
- The portrayal of chairwomen in media has evolved to highlight both strength and vulnerability, reflecting society's changing views on gender roles.
Sociology
- Studies show that having women in leadership roles, such as chairwomen, often leads to more inclusive decision-making processes.
- Research indicates that organizations with female leadership roles tend to have better performance and employee satisfaction.
- The increasing presence of chairwomen in various sectors is linked to wider societal changes regarding gender equality and advocacy.
Global Perspective
- In many countries, the role of chairwoman is still evolving, with some cultures placing restrictions on women in leadership roles.
- Countries like Rwanda have the highest percentage of female legislators in the world, reflecting a strong presence of women in leadership positions, including chairwomen.
- The push for female representation has sparked international movements advocating for the appointment of more chairwomen in various fields.
Origin of 'chairwoman'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chair' originally comes from the Latin 'cathedra,' meaning a seat of authority.
- The term 'woman' has Old English roots as 'wifman,' meaning 'female human,' showing a long history of gender distinctions in roles.
- Combining the two terms reflects both the position of leadership and the gender of the person in that role, broadening traditional titles.
The term 'chairwoman' emerged in the late 19th century as a gender-specific form of 'chairman' to address the growing presence of women in leadership roles. It reflects the changing societal norms and recognition of women's contributions to various fields. The use of 'chairwoman' continues to evolve in modern contexts, emphasizing gender equality and diversity in leadership positions.
See also: armchair, chair, chairman, chairperson, chairs.