Female Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
female
[หfiหmeษชl ]
Definitions
gender
An individual of the sex that is typically associated with producing eggs or giving birth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| female |
Used in biological, scientific, or formal contexts to specify the sex of a person or animal.
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| woman |
Used to refer to an adult female human. Neutral and most common term for an adult female.
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| girl |
Generally used to refer to a young female child or teenager. Informal and affectionate tone.
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| lady |
Used to show respect, often for an adult woman. It can also imply a polite or refined woman.
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Examples of usage
- She is a strong advocate for female empowerment.
- The female of the species is usually larger than the male.
gender
Characteristic of or relating to the female sex.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| female |
This term is used in a general or biological context to describe a person or animal that belongs to the sex that can bear offspring or produce eggs. It is often used in scientific or formal settings.
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| feminine |
This word is used to describe qualities or characteristics traditionally associated with women, such as gentleness, grace, or delicacy. It is often utilized in discussions about gender roles or fashion.
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| womanly |
This word is used to describe traits or characteristics that are mature and traditionally associated with adult women. It often implies a certain sense of grace, strength, or wisdom.
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| ladylike |
This term describes behavior or appearance that is considered proper and refined, often in a traditional or somewhat old-fashioned sense. It may imply a standard of decorum expected of women.
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Examples of usage
- She has a strong female voice in the industry.
- The female perspective is important to consider.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Biologically, females are typically characterized by two X chromosomes, responsible for various traits and functions.
- In many species, females are often the primary caregivers, demonstrating nurturing behavior crucial for the survival of young.
- Females display a variety of reproductive strategies, such as monogamy or polygamy, greatly influencing species population dynamics.
Culture
- Throughout history, various cultures have revered the female figure, associating femininity with fertility, beauty, and wisdom.
- In art, famous pieces like Botticelli's 'The Birth of Venus' portray females as icons of beauty and powerful life forces.
- Feminist movements have worked towards gender equality, challenging biases associated with being female, aiming for social and political rights.
Psychology
- Research shows that females often develop social bonds and communication skills earlier than males, relating to collaborative behaviors.
- Studies suggest that female brains may process emotions differently, highlighting a potential for greater empathy and emotional insight.
- Gender socialization shapes expectations for females, often linking traits like kindness and sensitivity as desirable from a young age.
Literature
- Many classic novels feature female protagonists who challenge societal norms, such as Jane Eyre in Charlotte Brontรซ's work.
- Feminist literature has evolved to explore female identity, empowerment, and struggles, encouraging voices of women across cultures.
- In fantasy fiction, powerful female characters often break stereotypes, from warriors to wise rulers, broadening perspectives on femininity.
Origin of 'female'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'female' comes from the Latin word 'femella,' which means 'young woman' or 'girl.'
- In Middle English, 'femele' was used to describe the female sex, showcasing the gradual evolution of the term.
- The prefix 'fe-' in 'female' is linked to 'fem-' in 'feminine,' emphasizing the connection to qualities associated with women.
The word 'female' originated from the Old French word 'femele', which came from the Latin word 'femella' meaning 'young woman or girl'. The term has been in use since the 14th century to refer to the sex or gender associated with producing eggs or giving birth.