Female slave Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉโ๐ฆฐ
female slave
[หfiหmeษชl sleษชv ]
Definition
history
A female slave is a woman who is owned by another person and is forced to work without pay. Female slaves have been historically used for domestic work, agricultural labor, and sexual exploitation.
Synonyms
bondmaid, bondwoman, concubine.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| female slave |
Commonly used in historical texts or discussions to describe a woman who is owned by another person and is forced to work without pay. Can be used in modern discussions about human rights to emphasize the severity of the condition.
|
| bondwoman |
Used in historical or legal contexts to describe a woman who is enslaved or bound in servitude. The term emphasizes legal and social status.
|
| bondmaid |
An archaic term mostly found in historical literature or texts. It refers to a woman who is bound to serve someone and has a slightly old-fashioned or poetic tone.
|
| concubine |
Refers to a woman who lives with a man but has a lower social status than his wife or wives. It's often used in historical or cultural discussions, particularly relating to royal courts or polygamous societies.
|
Examples of usage
- Female slaves were often treated as property and had no rights or freedoms.
- Many female slaves were subjected to physical and sexual abuse by their owners.
- Female slaves played a crucial role in the economies of ancient civilizations.
- The living conditions of female slaves were often harsh and dehumanizing.
- Female slaves were considered inferior to free women in society.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- In many ancient societies, female slaves were often used for domestic work, caregiving, and sometimes for breeding more slaves.
- During the transatlantic slave trade, women were subjected to sexual exploitation, facing unique hardships beyond manual labor.
- In ancient Rome, female slaves could earn their freedom through various means, unlike in many other cultures where options were severely limited.
Cultural Representation
- Literature has depicted the lives of female slaves, like in 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker, highlighting their struggles and resilience.
- In films like '12 Years a Slave,' the brutal realities of female slavery are portrayed, emphasizing human rights abuses.
- Contemporary art often showcases themes relating to female slavery, drawing attention to historical injustices and modern forms of exploitation.
Legal Aspects
- Slavery was legally abolished in many countries during the 19th century, but modern forms of slavery still exist, affecting women disproportionately.
- International laws, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, prohibit slavery in all its forms, yet enforcement remains a significant challenge.
- Women's rights organizations continue to fight against human trafficking and modern slavery, highlighting the ongoing plight of women globally.
Psychological Impact
- Women who were enslaved often experienced severe trauma, affecting their mental health long after gaining freedom.
- Studies show that the legacy of slavery can impact families for generations, influencing identity and community relations.
- Psychological research emphasizes the importance of support systems for survivors, fostering resilience and recovery from trauma.
Modern Terminology
- Terms like 'trafficked women' and 'forced labor' are now more commonly used to describe the exploitation of women that resembles past slavery.
- Awareness campaigns have evolved, focusing on the intersection of gender and human rights issues, particularly regarding women in vulnerable situations.
- Organizations advocate for the rights of women affected by modern slavery, emphasizing the need for education and economic opportunities.
Origin of 'female slave'
The history of female slavery dates back to ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Rome, where women were treated as property and had no legal rights. Female slaves were used for various purposes, including domestic work, agricultural labor, and sexual servitude. The practice of female slavery continued through the transatlantic slave trade and persisted in various forms until the abolition of slavery in the 19th century. The legacy of female slavery has had lasting impacts on gender inequality and human rights.