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Misogyny: meaning, definitions and examples

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misogyny

 

[ mɪˈsɒdʒɪni ]

Noun
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.

Word origin

The term 'misogyny' originated in the early 17th century, derived from the Greek roots 'misos,' meaning 'hatred,' and 'gynē,' meaning 'woman.' Although the word appeared in literature during this period, the ethos of misogyny can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where many cultures exhibited systemic gender biases. Historical texts frequently reflect the cultural norms that devalued women's roles in society. The term gained more prominence in the 20th century as the feminist movement challenged societal attitudes and structures pertaining to gender inequality. Through various cultural, social, and political lenses, misogyny has evolved and been scrutinized, making it an important subject in contemporary discussions about women's rights and 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.