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feminism

noun

/ˈfɛmɪnɪzᵊm/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of feminism

A social and political movement advocating for the equal rights, opportunities, and empowerment of women.
"Feminism fights for gender equality and empowerment of women."

Detailed meaning of feminism

It is a belief system and ideology that challenges and seeks to dismantle gender-based inequalities and discrimination. Feminism recognizes that historically, women have been marginalized, oppressed, and denied fundamental rights in various aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and representation. Feminism strives for gender equity by addressing systemic barriers and biases that perpetuate gender-based disparities. It seeks to promote gender equality in legal, social, economic, and cultural realms. Feminism encompasses a wide range of perspectives and approaches, including intersectional feminism that acknowledges and addresses the unique experiences of women of different races, classes, sexual orientations, and abilities. At its core, feminism advocates for the right of every individual, regardless of their gender, to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness, and to have the freedom to make choices and fulfill their potential without limitations imposed by societal norms and expectations.

Example sentences containing feminism

1. Feminism advocates for gender equality and the empowerment of women.
2. She is a strong advocate for feminism and fights for women's rights.
3. Feminism challenges societal norms and aims to dismantle gender-based discrimination.
4. Many notable figures have contributed to the feminist movement throughout history.
5. Feminism promotes the idea that women should have the same opportunities as men.
6. Intersectional feminism recognizes the overlapping oppressions faced by women of different backgrounds.

History and etymology of feminism

The noun 'feminism' has its roots in the Latin word 'femina,' which simply means 'woman.' The term 'feminism' emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in France and the United Kingdom, as a reflection of the broader social and political movement advocating for the equal rights, opportunities, and empowerment of women. It was derived from the French word 'féminisme' and was initially coined to describe the organized effort to address gender-based inequalities and injustices. The etymology of 'feminism' underscores its focus on women and their rights, positioning it as a movement that seeks to advance the interests and status of women in society, both historically and in contemporary contexts.

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Further usage examples of feminism

1. Feminism seeks to address systemic issues that perpetuate gender inequality.
2. The feminist movement has made significant strides in promoting women's reproductive rights.
3. Feminism encourages women to break free from traditional gender roles and expectations.
4. Feminism emphasizes the importance of consent and the eradication of sexual harassment and assault.
5. The feminist perspective highlights the need for more representation of women in leadership positions.
6. Feminism aims to challenge and dismantle patriarchal structures in society.
7. Many young women today actively engage with feminism and participate in feminist activism.
8. Feminism acknowledges and confronts the unique challenges faced by marginalized women.
9. Feminism advocates for fair and equitable treatment of women in the workplace.
10. The feminist movement has inspired numerous books, documentaries, and art forms that explore gender issues.
11. Feminism recognizes that gender equality benefits society as a whole, not just women.
12. Intersectional feminism promotes solidarity among diverse groups of women facing various forms of oppression.
13. Feminism encourages men to be allies and actively participate in dismantling gender-based discrimination.
14. The feminist movement continues to evolve and adapt to address new challenges faced by women globally.