What does spokeswomen mean?
“Spokeswomen” is the plural of “spokeswoman” and refers to women who serve as official or informal representatives of an organization, political movement, company, or other group. The word is especially common in journalism and public relations, where a spokesperson explains a position, answers questions, or communicates news to the media. In traditional usage, it refers specifically to women, whereas “spokespeople” is increasingly used as a gender-neutral alternative when the speakers’ genders are not relevant. Although “spokeswoman” remains widely understood and appropriate, “spokesperson” can be preferable in inclusive professional contexts. The term emphasizes the public-speaking and representative function of the role rather than merely providing a title.
nounThe plural form of spokeswoman, meaning female representatives or spokespersons, especially women who communicate a group's views to the public or media.
- Female representatives who speak on behalf of an organization, group, or individual to the public or media.
"The organization appointed two spokeswomen to explain its position to the press."
"The two spokeswomen addressed questions about the company’s new policy."
"Political spokeswomen from both parties met to discuss the proposed legislation."
The standard plural of “spokeswoman.” Use “spokespeople” when referring to representatives of any gender.
"The company’s spokeswomen issued a joint statement on Monday."
A spokeswoman is not merely someone who speaks; she is the voice chosen to represent a larger group.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spokeswomen come from?
The word is formed from “spokes,” as in “spokesperson,” plus the gendered element “woman.” “Spokesman” and “spokeswoman” developed from the earlier sense of a person who speaks for another or for a group. The underlying elements “speak” and “woman” are English words with different historical origins, while the compound has become the conventional gendered form of the modern term “spokesperson.”
Related word forms
How spokeswomen is actually used
“Spokeswomen” is the standard plural of “spokeswoman.” In contemporary usage, “spokespeople” or “spokespersons” is often preferred when referring to people of any gender.
Easily confused with spokeswomen
“Spokeswomen” refers specifically to women serving as representatives, while “spokespeople” is gender-neutral and may include people of any gender.