Unwomanly: meaning, definitions and examples
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unwomanly
[ ˌʌnˈwʌmənli ]
behavior, characteristics
Unwomanly refers to traits, behaviors, or characteristics that are typically not associated with traditional feminine roles or expectations. It implies a deviation from what society deems as appropriate for women, often carrying a negative connotation in contexts that emphasize traditional gender roles.
Synonyms
androgynous, masculine, unfeminine.
Examples of usage
- Her unwomanly ambition surprised everyone.
- The character displayed unwomanly strength in crisis.
- Critics described her unwomanly attire as inappropriate.
Translations
Translations of the word "unwomanly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 não feminina
🇮🇳 अशिष्ट
🇩🇪 unweiblich
🇮🇩 tidak feminin
🇺🇦 нежіночний
🇵🇱 niefeminina
🇯🇵 女性らしくない
🇫🇷 non féminin
🇪🇸 no femenino
🇹🇷 kadınsı
🇰🇷 여성스럽지 않은
🇸🇦 غير أنثوي
🇨🇿 neženský
🇸🇰 neženský
🇨🇳 不女性化的
🇸🇮 neženski
🇮🇸 ekki kvenlegur
🇰🇿 әйелге тән емес
🇬🇪 არამდური
🇦🇿 qadınsı
🇲🇽 no femenino
Etymology
The term 'unwomanly' is constructed by adding the prefix 'un-' to the adjective 'womanly,' which originates from Old English 'wīfmann' ('wife' and 'man'). The prefix 'un-' denotes negation or removal, thus 'unwomanly' embodies the concept of lacking qualities considered typical of women. The word emphasizes societal norms regarding gender roles, particularly in relation to behavior, appearance, or professional ambition. Over time, 'unwomanly' has been used in literature and discourse to challenge or critique traditional notions of femininity, often serving as a reminder of the rigid structures imposed on gender identities.