Femininity: meaning, definitions and examples
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femininity
[ˌfɛməˈnɪnəti ]
Definition
gender identity
Femininity refers to qualities or attributes regarded as characteristic of women. These may include traits such as gentleness, empathy, sensitivity, and nurturing. It is often associated with traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Synonyms
femaleness, womanhood, womanliness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| femininity |
Best used to describe qualities or characteristics traditionally associated with being female, often in a positive or neutral way.
|
| womanhood |
Used to describe the state or condition of being an adult woman, often with an emphasis on personal growth and maturity.
|
| femaleness |
Primarily used in a biological or medical context to discuss the state of being female, often in a neutral tone.
|
| womanliness |
Often denotes qualities that are traditionally considered characteristic of women, usually in a positive context but can sometimes imply adherence to traditional gender roles.
|
Examples of usage
- Her femininity shone through in the way she cared for others.
- The dress emphasized her femininity and grace.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique ideas about what it means to be feminine, which can change over time.
- In some societies, femininity is linked to nurturing roles like being a mother, while in others, it may focus on independence and leadership.
- Fashion and beauty standards often reflect societal views on femininity, influencing how women express themselves.
Historical Context
- In the past, femininity was often defined by strict roles in the home and family, but this has evolved significantly in modern times.
- The feminist movements of the 20th century challenged traditional views of femininity, promoting a broader understanding of gender roles.
- Famous literary figures, like Virginia Woolf, explored themes of femininity in their works, analyzing women's identity and societal expectations.
Psychological Insights
- Studies show that individual expressions of femininity can greatly influence a woman's self-esteem and identity.
- People often internalize cultural messages about femininity, which can affect their personal beliefs and behaviors.
- Psychological research suggests that femininity can be expressed in diverse ways, including traits like empathy and cooperation.
Literature and Art
- Many authors and artists explore femininity through their work, challenging stereotypes and celebrating female experiences.
- Art movements, such as Feminist Art, emerged to express and critique traditional notions of femininity and empower women.
- Poets like Maya Angelou and Simone de Beauvoir have used their writing to articulate the complexities of femininity.
Global Variations
- Different regions have distinct values surrounding femininity, from the strong female warriors in some tribes to the emphasis on grace and poise in others.
- In some cultures, femininity is celebrated through rituals and traditions that honor women and their capabilities.
- Global dialogues around femininity continue to evolve, particularly with the increasing influence of globalization and social media.
Translations
Translations of the word "femininity" in other languages:
🇵🇹 feminilidade
🇮🇳 स्त्रीत्व (strītva)
🇩🇪 Weiblichkeit
🇮🇩 kewanitaan
🇺🇦 жіночність
🇵🇱 kobiecość
🇯🇵 女性らしさ (joseirashisa)
🇫🇷 féminité
🇪🇸 feminidad
🇹🇷 kadınlık
🇰🇷 여성스러움 (yeoseongseureoum)
🇸🇦 أنوثة (anūtha)
🇨🇿 ženskost
🇸🇰 ženskosť
🇨🇳 女性气质 (nǚxìng qìzhí)
🇸🇮 ženskost
🇮🇸 kvenleiki
🇰🇿 әйелдік (äieldik)
🇬🇪 ქალურობა (kaluroba)
🇦🇿 qadınlıq
🇲🇽 feminidad