Feminism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
♀️
feminism
[ˈfɛmɪˌnɪzəm ]
Definition
social movement
Feminism is a social and political movement that advocates for the rights and equality of women in all aspects of life. It seeks to address issues such as gender discrimination, reproductive rights, and the economic and social inequalities that women face. The movement gained significant traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to landmark changes such as women's suffrage. Feminism encompasses various branches and ideologies that interpret the experiences and needs of women differently.
Synonyms
gender equality movement, womanism, women's rights movement.
Examples of usage
- Feminism has influenced many aspects of society.
- The feminism movement aims to achieve gender equality.
- Modern feminism addresses issues like pay equity.
- She identifies as a feminist and supports women's rights.
- Feminism has played a crucial role in legislative changes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The feminist movement began in the late 19th century, aiming for women’s suffrage or the right to vote.
- In the early 20th century, the fight extended to areas like education, labor rights, and reproductive rights.
- The term 'feminism' was first coined in the late 1800s, with roots in the French word 'féminisme'.
Pop Culture
- Icons like Madonna and Beyoncé have used their platforms to speak about feminism, influencing public perception.
- Popular literature and films, such as 'The Handmaid's Tale', critique gender roles and have sparked discussions about women's rights.
- The #MeToo movement gained global attention and highlighted the urgency of addressing sexual harassment and assault.
Science
- Studies show that gender equality leads to better economic outcomes; countries with higher gender equality perform better economically.
- Research indicates that diverse leadership teams, including women, lead to more innovative solutions and better decision-making.
- Feminism has encouraged the study of gender roles in psychology, leading to investigations into stereotypes and social behaviors.
Literature
- Many classic authors, such as Mary Wollstonecraft, laid foundations for feminist thought with works advocating for women's education.
- Contemporary writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie have popularized feminist ideas through essays and talks, influencing a new generation.
- The portrayal of female characters in literature has evolved, with more complex, empowered women showing varied experiences.
Psychology
- Feminist psychology examines how traditional psychology may overlook or misrepresent women's experiences.
- The concept of 'gender identity' emerged from feminist discourse, focusing on how societal constructs shape personal identity.
- Research indicates that challenging gender stereotypes can lead to positive mental health outcomes for both men and women.
Origin of 'feminism'
The term 'feminism' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the French term 'féminisme' which was coined in 1837. Initially, it referred to the advocacy of women's rights and the pursuit of equal social and political rights for women. The roots of feminism can be traced back to earlier movements advocating for the rights of women, most notably the suffragette movement, which fought for women's right to vote. Over the decades, feminism has evolved significantly, encompassing various waves, each focusing on different aspects of women's rights. The first wave in the late 19th and early 20th centuries centered around legal issues and inequalities, primarily suffrage. The second wave, which emerged in the 1960s, broadened the debate to sexuality, family, workplace rights, and reproductive freedoms. The third wave, gaining ground in the 1990s, emphasized individualism and diversity among women's experiences. Today, feminism continues to adapt and address both historical and contemporary issues that affect women worldwide.