Spokeswoman

Definition

A spokeswoman is a female individual designated to speak on behalf of a group, organization, or another individual, particularly in an official capacity to communicate statements or respond to inquiries from the media and the general public.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspoʊksˌwʊmən/
• Respelling: SPOAKS-wuh-muhn (with "SPOAKS" rhyming with "oaks," "wuh" as a schwa sound like the 'u' in "supply," and "muhn" as in "mutton" without the "t" sounds)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspəʊksˌwʊmən/
• Respelling: SPOAKS-wuh-muhn (similar to American English, with "SPOAKS" rhyming with "oaks," "wuh" like the 'u' in "supply," and "muhn" as in "mutton" without the "t" sounds)

In both dialects, "spokeswoman" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SPOAKS." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly indicating the word's composite nature and stress pattern.

Etymology

The term "spokeswoman" is derived from the combination of the words "speak" and "woman." The prefix "spokes-" comes from the old English word "sprecan" which means to speak, and it's combined with "woman." It is used to specify the gender of the individual speaking on behalf of a group or organization.

Derivatives

• Spokeswomanship
• Spokeswomen

Synonyms

• Representative
• Mouthpiece
• Communicator

Antonyms

• Non-representative
• Follower
• Subordinate

Usage

A spokeswoman represents her organization in public forums, press conferences, or any situation where the organization needs a voice. Her role is to ensure accurate and consistent communication between the organization and the public.

Related Terms

• Press Secretary
• Public Relations Officer
• Media Relations
• Ambassador
• Spokesperson

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Official Representative: A female individual chosen or designated by a group, organization, or other person to speak, represent, and handle inquiries on their behalf, especially to the media and public.
• Example: "The company's spokeswoman addressed the new policy changes during the press conference."

• Communicator: A female individual who imparts information, elucidations, or statements.
• Example: "Being a good spokeswoman requires excellent communication skills to convey complex messages accurately and effectively."