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Woke Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ
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woke

[woสŠk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

social awareness

The term 'woke' originally referred to an acute awareness of social injustices, particularly those relating to racism and discrimination. Over time, it has evolved to encompass broader issues, including gender equality and environmental justice. Being woke implies a heightened consciousness about systemic inequalities and a commitment to addressing them. The term is often used within social and political discourse to signify activism and advocacy for marginalized groups.

Synonyms

aware, conscious, enlightened.

Examples of usage

  • She became woke to the issues facing her community after attending the conference.
  • His woke perspective led him to challenge the status quo.
  • The movement encourages a woke mindset among its followers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • It became widely recognized through the song 'Stay Woke' by Erykah Badu, highlighting the importance of social consciousness.
  • Social media platforms have played a pivotal role in spreading the term, often associated with movements like Black Lives Matter.

History

  • During the civil rights movement of the 1960s, individuals encouraged being 'woke' to remain aware of racial injustices.
  • The phrase โ€˜stay wokeโ€™ originated from a 1938 song by the African American folk musician Huddie Ledbetter, also known as Lead Belly.

Sociology

  • The concept emphasizes social justice activism, often linking it to broader issues like gender equality and environmental concerns.
  • Being 'woke' can sometimes be viewed critically, where critics argue it represents a form of performative activism rather than genuine engagement.

Influence on Language

  • 'Woke' has entered mainstream dictionaries, illustrating its transition from a niche term to a recognized part of everyday language.
  • The word is often used both positively and negatively, reflecting differing opinions on social activism and cultural awareness.

Origin of 'woke'

Main points about word origin

  • Originally, 'woke' is a past tense of 'wake,' but in the 20th century, it evolved to mean awareness of social injustices.
  • The term gained popularity in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), signifying a heightened awareness of issues affecting the Black community.

The word 'woke' has its origins in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), dating back to the early 20th century. It gained traction during the civil rights movement as a colloquialism meant to signify an awareness of social and political injustices, especially those endured by African Americans. The phrase 'stay woke' became popularized in the 2000s, particularly through social media and movements like Black Lives Matter. Initially, it was a call to remain vigilant against oppression and systemic racism. In the contemporary context, the term has expanded beyond its original meaning to encompass a range of social justice issues, including LGBTQ rights, gender equality, and environmental concerns. However, the term has also faced criticism and has been co-opted in some circles, leading to debates about its authenticity and relevance. Despite this, 'woke' remains a significant marker of social consciousness and activism in modern discourse.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,345 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.