Girl

Definition

Girl refers to a female child or young woman. It can also denote a daughter, a female friend, or a term used informally in social contexts to address or refer to women.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɜːrl/
• Respelling: gurl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɜːl/
• Respelling: gurl

Etymology

The word "girl" originates from Middle English "gurle" or "girle," which referred to a young person of either gender. Over time, it became specifically associated with female children or young women. Its ultimate origin is unclear but may relate to Old English "gyrela," meaning "garment," possibly indicating a youthful appearance.

Derivatives

• Girlish (adjective)
• Girlhood (noun)
• Girlfriend (noun)
• Girl-next-door (noun)
• Girlpower (noun)

Synonyms

• Daughter
• Young woman
• Female

Antonyms

• Boy
• Man
• None

Usage

The term "girl" is widely used in familial, social, and cultural contexts. For example, "The girl played in the park," or "She is a hardworking girl with big dreams."

Related Terms

• Woman: An adult female human.
• Child: A young human being, regardless of gender.
• Sister: A female sibling.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A female child: Refers to a young female individual.
  • Example: "The girl wore a red dress to the party."
• A young woman: Often used informally to describe a female in her teenage years or early adulthood.
  • Example: "She is a talented girl who excels in sports."
• A female friend or acquaintance: Used informally in social contexts.
  • Example: "The girls are meeting up for lunch."