What does spokeswoman mean?
A spokeswoman is a woman who speaks for an organization, political party, campaign, or other group, usually as its official representative to the media or public. The word combines “spokesman,” meaning a person who communicates on behalf of others, with the feminine ending “-woman.” It is used especially in press reports, formal announcements, and political contexts. In contemporary usage, “spokesperson” is often preferred because it describes the role without marking gender. Even so, “spokeswoman” remains a familiar and precise term when a woman is specifically being identified. It can also suggest a person with an official or professional communication role rather than any individual who happens to express another person’s views.
nounA woman who speaks on behalf of an organization, group, or individual, especially in an official or public capacity.
- A woman who communicates an organization’s, group’s, or person’s views to the public or media.
"The spokeswoman confirmed that the announcement would be made later that afternoon."
"The spokeswoman declined to comment on the negotiations."
"In a televised statement, the spokeswoman defended the company’s decision."
The plural is formed by changing “woman” to “women.”
"Several spokeswomen addressed the questions from reporters."
The gendered label is giving way to the neutral word spokesperson as organizations aim to describe whoever communicates for them without implying a gender.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spokeswoman come from?
The word is formed from the earlier English noun “spokesman,” meaning a person who speaks on behalf of another person or group. Adding the feminine suffix “-woman” created a gender-marked form, reflecting a period when many job titles were conventionally divided into masculine and feminine versions. The underlying verb “speak” comes from Old English “specan,” while “spokesman” developed during the 19th century; the feminine form became established in the 20th century.
Related word forms
How spokeswoman is actually used
The term is increasingly replaced by the gender-neutral “spokesperson” or “representative.” It remains clear and widely understood, but some modern style guides prefer neutral alternatives when gender is irrelevant.
Easily confused with spokeswoman
A spokeswoman is specifically a female spokesperson, while spokesperson is gender-neutral and can refer to a man or woman.