Madwomen: meaning, definitions and examples
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madwomen
[ ˈmædˌwʊmən ]
mental health
The term 'madwoman' historically refers to a woman who is perceived as being mentally ill or displaying erratic behavior. This label is often associated with stereotypes and societal stigma surrounding women and mental health. In literature and culture, madwomen are frequently depicted as sources of conflict, passion, and tragic narratives, representing the struggles against societal norms. The term has been reclaimed in some feminist discourses to challenge the stereotypes surrounding women's emotional expressions and mental health.
Synonyms
disturbed woman, hysterical woman, insane woman
Examples of usage
- The madwoman in the attic symbolizes female oppression.
- She was often labeled as a madwoman for her unconventional ideas.
- The story explores the life of a madwoman in a patriarchal society.
Translations
Translations of the word "madwomen" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mulheres loucas
🇮🇳 पागल महिलाएँ
🇩🇪 verrückte Frauen
🇮🇩 wanita gila
🇺🇦 божевільні жінки
🇵🇱 szalone kobiety
🇯🇵 狂った女性たち
🇫🇷 femmes folles
🇪🇸 mujeres locas
🇹🇷 delilik kadınlar
🇰🇷 미친 여성들
🇸🇦 نساء مجانين
🇨🇿 šílené ženy
🇸🇰 šialené ženy
🇨🇳 疯狂的女性
🇸🇮 norčevanje žensk
🇮🇸 geðveikar konur
🇰🇿 жындар шизофрения
🇬🇪 ცუდი ქალები
🇦🇿 dəlil qadınlar
🇲🇽 mujeres locas
Etymology
The term 'madwoman' has its roots in 16th century literature and the evolving views on mental illness and gender roles. Originally derived from the word 'mad,' which means insane or mentally ill, it was primarily used to describe women who exhibited behavior that was considered abnormal or outside societal expectations. As mental health awareness evolved, the use of such terms reflected the stigma attached to mental disorders, particularly for women. In the 19th century, as literature began addressing female insanity, the 'madwoman' became a prominent figure representing the fears and anxieties associated with women's liberation and emotional expression. Through works such as Charlotte Perkins Gilman's 'The Yellow Wallpaper,' the madwoman archetype gained deeper meanings, prompting discussions about gender, mental health, and societal constraints. Today, the term is viewed with increased sensitivity, recognizing the complexities of mental health and the importance of challenging historical stereotypes.