Feminine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
feminine
[หfษmษnษชn ]
Definitions
gender
Having qualities traditionally ascribed to women, such as sensitivity, nurturing, and gentleness.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feminine |
Similar to the first, this word is used interchangeably with the other 'feminine'.
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| womanly |
Used to describe qualities or attributes that are considered characteristic of a mature woman, often emphasizing strength, warmth, and confidence.
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| ladylike |
Used to describe a woman or girl who behaves in a polite and refined way, often conforming to traditional gender roles.
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| graceful |
Used to describe someone or something that moves in a smooth, attractive way or is elegant and beautiful.
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Examples of usage
- She has a feminine charm that captivates everyone around her.
- The dress has a feminine cut that accentuates her figure.
grammar
A gender that refers chiefly to females or objects classified as female.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feminine |
Used to describe qualities, behaviors, or items traditionally associated with women or girls, often in a positive or neutral sense. It can also refer to grammatical gender in some languages.
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| female |
Used in a biological or formal context to refer to the sex that can bear offspring or produce eggs. It can apply to both humans and animals.
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| woman |
Refers to an adult female human. It is used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| girl |
Refers to a young female human, typically a child or adolescent.
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Examples of usage
- In French, the word 'table' is feminine.
- The pronoun 'she' is feminine in English grammar.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- Many cultures around the world associate qualities like nurturing and empathy with femininity.
- In some societies, feminine traits may be undervalued compared to masculine traits, affecting gender equality discussions.
- Feminine aesthetics in art often emphasize beauty, emotion, and connection to nature.
Psychology
- Research suggests that traits classified as feminine, such as cooperation and emotional intelligence, are essential in effective teamwork.
- Psychological studies show that society often encourages people to express traits based on their gender, influencing their identity.
- Traits like empathy and nurturing, historically deemed feminine, are now recognized as critical for both genders' development.
Pop Culture
- Feminine empowerment is a common theme in films, often portraying strong female characters breaking traditional norms.
- Fashion trends regularly explore and redefine femininity, challenging traditional norms of what it means to dress feminine.
- Many songs and literature pieces celebrate femininity, expressing the strength and complexity of womenโs experiences.
Literature
- Classic literature often depicts women as embodiments of feminine virtues, such as kindness and sacrifice.
- Contemporary writers challenge traditional feminine roles, introducing complex female characters with diverse traits.
- The concept of femininity has evolved in poetry, symbolizing strength and resilience through various historical contexts.
Origin of 'feminine'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'femina', which means 'woman'.
- In the 14th century, 'feminine' began to be used in English to refer to traits traditionally associated with women.
- The word's usage has evolved, and in modern times, it can refer to strengths in both genders.
The word 'feminine' originated from the Latin word 'femininus', which means 'female'. In the English language, it has been used since the 14th century to describe qualities associated with women or the female gender. The concept of femininity has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal norms and perceptions of gender roles.