Feminist

Definition

Feminist pertains to the advocacy of women's rights on the grounds of political, social, and economic equality to men.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɛmɪnɪst/
• Respelling: FEM-uh-nist (with "FEM" as in "gem," "uh" as in "sofa," and "nist" as in "list")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɛmɪnɪst/
• Respelling: FEM-uh-nist (with "FEM" as in "gem," "uh" as in "sofa," and "nist" as in "list")

In both dialects, "feminist" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FEM." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FEM-uh-nist."

Etymology

The word "feminist" is derived from the Latin word "femina," meaning "woman," combined with the suffix "-ist," which denotes an advocate or supporter of a particular cause. The term "feminist" was first used in the late 19th century, around the time of the first-wave feminist movement, which focused on women's suffrage and legal rights.

Derivatives

• Feminism (noun)
• Feministic (adjective)
• Feminize (verb)
• Feminization (noun)
• Feminist theory (noun phrase)

Synonyms

• Women's Rights Advocate
• Womanist
• Egalitarian

Antonyms

• Misogynist
• Chauvinist
• Anti-feminist

Usage

The term "feminist" is widely used in discussions about gender equality, social justice, and human rights. Feminists work to address issues such as gender discrimination, wage gaps, reproductive rights, and violence against women. The term can be applied to individuals of any gender who support these goals.

Related Terms

• Patriarchy: A system of society or government in which men hold the power and women are largely excluded.
• Misandry: Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against men.
• Gender Equality: The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Advocate for Women's Rights: A feminist is someone who actively supports the movement for gender equality, particularly focusing on the rights and empowerment of women in various social, political, and economic spheres.
  • Example: She identifies as a feminist and has been involved in campaigns for equal pay and reproductive rights.

• Supporter of Feminist Ideals: A person who believes in and promotes the principles of feminism, including the dismantling of patriarchal structures and the pursuit of equal opportunities for all genders.
  • Example: Feminists have played a key role in advocating for changes in laws that impact women's lives.

Adjective

• Pertaining to Feminism: Describes ideas, actions, literature, or movements that are aligned with or advocate for feminist principles.
  • Example: The book offers a feminist analysis of historical events, highlighting the contributions of women that were often overlooked.

• Associated with Feminist Movements: Used to describe activities, organizations, or policies that promote gender equality and challenge gender-based discrimination.
  • Example: The feminist organization worked tirelessly to secure voting rights for women in the early 20th century.