Girl
/ɡɜːrl/noun
A female child or young woman.
Did you know?In the Middle Ages, 'girl' could refer to a young person of either gender, but it became gendered as society evolved, reflecting changing views on femininity.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
gyrela
“A young person or child, gender-neutral.”
Middle English
ME
girle
“A young female, often seen as a servant or unwed daughter.”
16th Century
English
girl
“Specifically referred to a young female, emerging as a distinct term.”
Modern English
English
girl
“A female child or young woman, solidifying its modern usage.”