Feminist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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feminist
[ˈfɛmɪnɪst ]
Definition
gender equality
A person who believes in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes. Feminists advocate for the rights of women and aim to challenge and change the societal norms and structures that perpetuate gender inequality.
Synonyms
equal rights supporter, gender equality activist, women's rights advocate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feminist |
This word is used to describe someone who supports equality between men and women in social, political, and economic aspects. It is often used in both casual and formal discussions about gender equality.
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| women's rights advocate |
This term focuses on supporting and promoting the rights of women. It is used in contexts specifically related to women's issues and struggles.
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| gender equality activist |
This term specifically highlights active involvement in campaigns and actions that promote gender equality. It is often associated with more visible and public efforts.
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| equal rights supporter |
This term is broad and can refer to anyone who supports equal rights, not just along gender lines but also in other areas such as race, sexual orientation, etc. It is suitable for inclusive contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Feminists fight for equal pay for equal work.
- She is a strong feminist who stands up against gender discrimination.
- The feminist movement has made significant strides in promoting women's rights.
- Many feminists work towards ending violence against women.
- Being a feminist means supporting gender equality.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'feminism' originated in the late 19th century and was first used in France, where it described the struggle for women's rights.
- The first wave of feminism focused on legal issues, primarily women's suffrage, which began in the late 1800s and continued into the early 1900s.
- Key figures such as Susan B. Anthony and Emmeline Pankhurst played pivotal roles in advocating for women's rights during this initial wave.
Pop Culture
- The feminist movement has heavily influenced literature, with authors like Virginia Woolf and Maya Angelou addressing gender issues in their works.
- Pop stars like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift have used their platforms to advocate for gender equality, making feminism more relatable to younger audiences.
- Television shows like 'The Handmaid's Tale' and 'Broad City' portray feminist themes, showcasing women's empowerment and issues related to gender.
Science
- Studies show that workplaces with gender diversity are often more productive and innovative, reinforcing the significance of equality.
- Research has illustrated that involving women in leadership roles leads to better decision-making and enhanced company performance.
- The gender pay gap indicates that women often earn less than men for the same work, a key issue feminist movements strive to address.
Psychology
- Feminist psychology emphasizes understanding women’s experiences, particularly how societal norms impact women's mental health.
- It challenges traditional psychological theories that often overlook or misrepresent women's perspectives and experiences.
- Empowerment through feminism boosts confidence and self-esteem, playing a vital role in mental health for many women.
Global Perspectives
- In some parts of the world, feminism faces cultural pushback, highlighting the need for intersectional understanding and representation.
- Global feminist movements work together to combat issues like human trafficking, reproductive rights, and education for girls in underserved areas.
- Different cultures interpret feminist ideas uniquely, which affects how movements progress globally, from Western feminism to indigenous rights movements.
Origin of 'feminist'
The term 'feminist' emerged in the late 19th century, initially referring to women who sought political and legal rights, such as the right to vote. Over time, the feminist movement expanded to encompass broader goals of gender equality and challenging patriarchal systems. Feminism has evolved through various waves, each emphasizing different aspects of gender equality and women's rights. Today, feminism continues to be a prominent social and political movement advocating for equality for all genders.