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Misogyny: meaning, definitions and examples

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misogyny

 

[mɪˈsɒdʒɪni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social issues

Misogyny refers to the dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women. It manifests in various forms, including discrimination, belittling remarks, and systemic inequalities. This term can be applied to both individual attitudes and broader cultural norms that perpetuate inequality. Misogyny can have harmful effects on women's mental health and societal standing, often resulting in violence and oppression.

Synonyms

female disdain, gender prejudice, woman-hating.

Examples of usage

  • The study revealed a disturbing level of misogyny in the workplace.
  • Misogyny is often evident in the media's portrayal of women.
  • He expressed misogyny by making derogatory comments about female leaders.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek roots 'misos' meaning hate and 'gynÄ“' meaning woman.
  • The term has been in use since the late 17th century, evolving in meaning while referring to women's oppression.
  • It reflects deep-seated cultural attitudes that have been present in various societies throughout history.

Historical Context

  • In ancient societies, misogyny was often codified in legal systems, which limited women's rights and freedom.
  • The suffrage movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries highlighted misogynistic attitudes by advocating for women's voting rights.
  • Misogyny has been analyzed in feminist theory, revealing how language and culture can maintain gender inequalities.

Psychology

  • Research shows that misogynistic attitudes can be linked to insecurities about masculinity and power.
  • Cognitive biases may lead individuals to uphold stereotypes that contribute to a lack of respect for women.
  • Studies suggest that socialization plays a significant role in perpetuating these negative feelings toward women from a young age.

Pop Culture

  • Misogyny is often depicted in movies, literature, and music, leading to discussions about how these media can reinforce negative stereotypes.
  • In the 21st century, many celebrities have used their platforms to speak out against misogyny, challenging society to change.
  • Social media's rise has allowed for greater visibility of misogynistic behavior, sparking widespread conversations on the topic.

Social Movements

  • The #MeToo movement has brought attention to misogyny in various fields, encouraging survivors to share their experiences.
  • Organizations around the world work to combat misogyny, focusing on education, policy change, and community support.
  • Allyship and advocacy have emerged as critical responses to misogyny, with men encouraged to support gender equality.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,869, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.