Woman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
woman
[หwสmษn ]
Definition
adult human female
A woman is an adult human female. The term woman is usually reserved for an adult, with the term girl being the usual term for a female child or adolescent. The term woman is also sometimes used to identify a female human, regardless of age.
Synonyms
female, girl, lady, womanhood.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| woman |
Generally used to describe an adult human female. It is neutral and widely accepted in formal and informal contexts.
|
| female |
Appropriate in scientific or technical contexts, or when referring to gender in a neutral or clinical way. It can sometimes sound impersonal.
|
| lady |
Often used to convey a sense of respect or politeness. It can also imply a certain level of sophistication or formality.
|
| girl |
Commonly used to describe a young female, typically a child or teenager. It can be informal and sometimes less respectful if used for an adult.
|
| womanhood |
Used to describe the state or condition of being a woman, often in a collective or abstract sense. It is more formal and literary.
|
Examples of usage
- She is a strong and independent woman.
- The conference was attended by many influential women.
- I admire women who fight for gender equality.
- Women have been breaking barriers in various fields.
- Being a woman in a male-dominated industry can be challenging.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'woman' comes from the Old English 'wifman', where 'wif' means woman and 'man' means person.
- Historically, roles of women varied greatly across cultures; in many societies, they were key to community survival through agriculture and family care.
- The feminist movement arose in the 19th century, advocating for women's rights, including suffrage, education, and workplace equality.
Science
- Women typically have a higher percentage of body fat than men, which plays a role in hormonal health and reproductive functions.
- Research shows that women often excel in verbal communication and emotional intelligence, aiding in social interactions.
- Women have been found to have different responses to stress than men, often showing a higher tendency for nurture and support behaviors.
Culture
- In many cultures, women have been celebrated in art, from ancient sculptures to modern portrayals in film and literature.
- International Women's Day on March 8th highlights achievements of women and promotes gender equality worldwide.
- Cultural representations of women have evolved, with more contemporary works showcasing diverse roles beyond traditional stereotypes.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that women are generally more empathetic, often taking on nurturing roles in both personal and professional settings.
- Women are more likely to seek help for mental health issues, breaking down stigmas associated with mental well-being.
- Research indicates that women may have different coping strategies under stress, often prioritizing relationships and social networks.
Literature
- Throughout history, many famous novels have centered on strong female protagonists, such as Elizabeth Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice'.
- Women writers have significantly contributed to literature, with authors like Mary Shelley and Virginia Woolf reshaping narratives through their unique perspectives.
- Literary movements often reflect societal views on women, as seen in the portrayal of female characters in 19th-century vs. contemporary works.
Origin of 'woman'
The word 'woman' originated from Middle English, from Old English wฤซfman, which means 'wife' and 'human being'. Over the years, the term evolved to specifically refer to an adult female human. Women have played significant roles in history, society, and culture, contributing to various fields and movements.