Females Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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females
[ˈfiːmeɪlz ]
Definition
gender classification
Females are individuals of a species that produce eggs or ovum, which can develop into offspring. In humans and many animals, females are defined by the presence of two X chromosomes. They typically possess reproductive structures like ovaries and are often associated with traits like nurturing and caring behavior.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Females of the species are usually larger than males.
- The female population is vital for the continuation of the species.
- Females may exhibit different behaviors during mating season.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biological Differences
- Females typically have two X chromosomes, while males usually have one X and one Y chromosome, leading to different physical traits.
- In most species, females are often the ones who choose mates, influencing genetics and behaviors in their populations.
- In the animal kingdom, female size can be larger than males in certain species, like spiders and many birds.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have various roles and expectations for females, influencing careers, family life, and social status.
- In history, female representation in leadership and governance has evolved, with many societies starting to embrace women in power.
- Feminism has played a crucial role in advocating for female rights, challenging stereotypes, and promoting gender equality across the globe.
Psychology
- Research shows that females may have stronger verbal skills from an early age, often resulting in better communication abilities.
- Studies indicate that females generally outperform males academically in many contexts, particularly in language-related subjects.
- Emotional intelligence tends to be higher in females, leading to increased empathy and social awareness.
Literature
- Female characters in literature often embody key themes of resilience, strength, and transformation, helping to shape narratives across cultures.
- Classic literature often portrayed females in traditional roles, but modern authors are increasingly exploring complex female identities.
- Many literary movements have brought female voices to the forefront, highlighting experiences unique to women and girls.
Science
- In medical research, females were often underrepresented, leading to gaps in understanding how diseases affect them uniquely.
- Female bodies metabolize drugs differently than male bodies, prompting calls for gender-specific studies in pharmacology.
- The female reproductive system has a complex hormonal cycle, influencing various aspects of health and well-being.
Origin of 'females'
The term 'female' traces back to the Latin word 'femella', meaning 'girl' or 'young woman', which is a diminutive form of 'femina', meaning 'woman'. This Latin root also connects to the Proto-Indo-European root *dʰeigh-, which means 'to suck' and relates to nurturing aspects often associated with females in many species. The use of 'female' to distinguish those who produce ova from males has been present in English since the late Middle Ages, evolving through Old French and Middle English usages. In contemporary times, 'female' encompasses a broad range of meanings, including biological, social, and cultural contexts.