What does feminist mean?
A feminist is a person who supports feminism, the movement and body of thought advocating equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for women. The word also functions as an adjective describing anything related to or informed by feminist principles, from "feminist theory" in academia to "feminist literature" in criticism. Derived ultimately from the Latin "femina," meaning woman, the term entered English via French in the late nineteenth century, coinciding with organized campaigns for women's suffrage and legal equality. Today it describes adherents of a wide range of perspectives, all united by the conviction that women should enjoy the same standing as men in political, economic, and social life. Because debates about gender equality remain prominent worldwide, "feminist" is a word of considerable cultural weight — embraced proudly by many, examined critically by others, and essential vocabulary for anyone engaging with modern social and political discourse.
A person who supports feminism; an advocate of equal rights and opportunities for women.
"Suffragettes were among the earliest feminists to fight for women's right to vote."
Often capitalized informally when referring to specific historical figures or movements, though standard usage keeps it lowercase.
Relating to, supporting, or characteristic of feminism and its principles.
"Her dissertation examined feminist interpretations of classical mythology."
Standard regular plural, used when referring to multiple advocates of feminism.
"Early feminists secured many of the legal rights women hold today."
The word "feminist" entered English from French in the 1890s — making it younger than the telephone.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of feminist
"Feminist" derives from the French "féministe," formed from "femme" (woman), which descends from the Latin "femina," meaning woman. The word entered English in the late nineteenth century, around the 1890s, as organized movements for women's rights gained momentum in Europe and America. It shares its root with related English words such as "feminine," "femininity," "female," and "effeminate."
Related word forms
How feminist is actually used
The term is used both as a self-descriptor and as a description of others' views, works, or movements. While broadly positive among those who adopt it, its connotation can vary with context and audience; some people distinguish between different schools of feminist thought (e.g., liberal, radical). The adjective sense frequently modifies abstract nouns such as "theory," "criticism," and "politics."
Easily confused with feminist
"Feminine" describes qualities traditionally associated with women, while "feminist" describes a person who supports equality between the sexes.