Womanishness: meaning, definitions and examples
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womanishness
[ ˈwʊmənɪʃnəs ]
feminine characteristics
Womanishness refers to traits, behaviors, or characteristics that are traditionally associated with women. It often encompasses attributes like gentleness, empathy, or sensitivity. In some contexts, it can imply a certain degree of deviation from conventional masculinity, emphasizing a softer or more nurturing disposition.
Synonyms
femininity, softness, womanliness.
Examples of usage
- Her womanishness was evident in her caring nature.
- The character's womanishness added depth to the narrative.
- He appreciated her womanishness, which contrasted with typical stereotypes.
Etymology
The word 'womanishness' is derived from 'womanish', which combines 'woman' with the suffix '-ish', indicating a quality associated with women. The root 'woman' comes from Old English 'wīfmann', a combination of 'wīf' (woman) and 'mann' (person). 'Womanish', a term that dates back to the 19th century, was often used to describe behaviors or characteristics perceived as predominantly feminine. The suffix '-ness' transforms the adjective 'womanish' into a noun, denoting the state or quality of being womanish. Historically, qualities associated with womanishness have been both celebrated and derided, reflecting cultural perceptions of gender roles. Over the years, the concept has evolved, frequently sparking discussions about gender stereotypes and the fluidity of masculinity and femininity.