Newsgirl - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

media job

A newsgirl refers to a female newspaper vendor or reporter, typically one who sells or distributes newspapers on the streets. Historically, newsgirls emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when women began to take on jobs that were traditionally held by men in the journalism field. They played a crucial role in disseminating news to the public and were often seen in urban environments selling daily editions. The term can also refer to a young female journalist who covers news stories for various media outlets.

Synonyms

journalist, news vendor, reporter.

Examples of usage

The newsgirl handed out newspapers on the bustling street corner.
In the early 1900s, many newsgirls worked to support their families.
The newsgirl reported live from the scene of the breaking news.
She dreamed of becoming a newsgirl to share important stories with the world.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'newsgirl' emerged in the late 19th century during the rise of newspapers, when women began to work in roles traditionally held by men.
In the early 20th century, newsgirls often sold newspapers on streets, playing a key role in distributing news to the public.
The image of the newsgirl became iconic in popular culture, representing the changing roles of women in society during that era.

Pop Culture

In the 1992 Disney movie 'Newsies', the fictional story features newsboys and newsgirls striving for better wages and working conditions.
Newsgirls have appeared in various books and films, often portrayed as brave and determined, challenging societal norms.
The character of a newsgirl is sometimes depicted in fashion, sporting vintage attire that reflects the time period when they were most prevalent.

Literature

Newsgirls are sometimes featured in children’s literature, empowering young readers with themes of courage and independence.
The 'newsgirl' trope has appeared as a symbol of journalistic integrity in various stories, emphasizing the importance of truth and information.
In poetry, newsgirls are often romanticized as figures of hope, bridging the gap between the public and the world of current events.

Education & Empowerment

Today's newsgirls mirror historical roles by participating in school newspapers, fostering skills in writing, reporting, and critical thinking.
Many organizations today encourage young girls to pursue journalism, offering programs that empower them to become future leaders in the field.
The representation of young female journalists promotes discussions about gender equality in media careers and inspires new generations.

Modern Context

With the rise of social media, the term 'newsgirl' has evolved, as many young women now share news online through blogs and platforms.
The digital age has made it easier for aspiring newsgirls to connect directly with their audiences, transcending traditional media barriers.
Today, many influential female journalists are referred to as newsgirls, illustrating the ongoing relevance of the term in contemporary society.

Origin of 'newsgirl'

The term 'newsgirl' has its roots in the early days of journalism and the newspaper industry. It became particularly popular in the late 19th century when societal norms began to shift, allowing women to enter the workforce in roles such as reporting and news distribution. Traditionally, job roles in media were dominated by men, but the rise of the newsgirl symbolized a change in perception about women's capabilities in journalism. While the exact origin of the word is uncertain, it is likely a combination of 'news'—derived from the Old French 'novelles'—referring to new information, and 'girl', a term used informally to describe a young female. Newsgirls were often recognized for their innovative spirit and determination to carve out a space for themselves in the media landscape, leading to greater recognition of women's contributions in journalism.

Newsgirl Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations