Patrolwoman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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patrolwoman
[pəˈtroʊlˈwʊmən ]
Definition
law enforcement
A patrolwoman is a female police officer who is responsible for patrolling a specific area to maintain public safety and enforce laws. She may respond to emergency calls, conduct traffic stops, and engage in community policing activities. The role often involves working in partnership with the community to address local concerns and promote safety. Patrolwomen are trained to handle a variety of situations, including criminal incidents, accidents, and public disturbances.
Synonyms
female officer, law enforcement officer, policewoman.
Examples of usage
- The patrolwoman stopped to assist the stranded motorist.
- The community organized a meeting with the local patrolwoman to discuss safety issues.
- A patrolwoman was dispatched to the neighborhood after reports of suspicious activity.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The role of women in law enforcement began to gain recognition in the late 19th century, with pioneers like Lavinia Lloyd Dock advocating for more women in policing.
- In the early 20th century, many cities started hiring women as police officers, primarily to work with women and children.
Cultural Impact
- Television shows often depict patrolwomen as strong, independent characters, influencing public perception of women in law enforcement.
- Popular media frequently highlights the challenges patrolwomen face, such as balancing family life with demanding careers.
Women in Law Enforcement
- As of 2020, women made up about 12-13% of the entire police force in the United States, showing the gradual increase of female representation.
- Some studies indicate that having more women in police roles can lead to better community relations.
Training and Skills
- Patrolwomen undergo similar training as their male counterparts, including physical fitness, firearms training, and conflict resolution.
- They often attend specialized training programs to handle cases involving domestic violence and sexual offenses.
Psychological Aspects
- Research suggests that female officers may be better at de-escalating tense situations, helping to create a less confrontational environment.
- Women in law enforcement often face unique stressors related to gender discrimination and balancing work-life commitments.
Origin of 'patrolwoman'
The term 'patrolwoman' is a compound word forming from 'patrol' and 'woman.' The word 'patrol' originates from the Middle French word 'patrouiller,' which meant to 'tread' or 'march with regular steps' and refers to the act of monitoring a specific area. The incorporation of 'woman' into this term reflects the evolution of female roles in law enforcement, which began to gain recognition in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As societies began to value equality, more women entered the police forces, officially adopting titles such as patrolwoman. The first known American policewoman, Alice Stebbins Wells, was appointed in 1910 in Los Angeles, leading to broader acceptance of women in active patrol roles.