Feminist
/ˈfɛm.ɪ.nɪst/noun
A person advocating for women's rights and equality between the sexes.
Did you know?The term 'feminist' emerged in the late 19th century, but its roots trace back to the Latin word 'femina', meaning 'woman', which was often associated with strength and resilience in ancient cultures.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
femina
“A woman, often connoting the essence of femininity.”
18th Century
French
féministe
“A term coined to describe advocates for women's rights and societal roles.”
19th Century
English
feminist
“A proponent of women's rights, evolving from the broader feminist movement.”
Late 19th Century
English
feminism
“The advocacy of women's rights on the basis of equality of the sexes.”
Explore more surprising origins