What does "feminist" mean?

1. (supporter of equality) someone who believes that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men. 2. (relating to feminism) describing an idea, book, or action that supports the goal of equal rights for women.

feminist

n. · adj.

US //ˈfɛmənɪst// UK //fˈɛmɪnˌɪst// fem·i·nist

1 supporter of equality (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

someone who believes that women should have the same rights, power, and opportunities as men.

an advocate for the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.

Example

She has been a proud feminist since her university days, fighting for equal pay.

Example

The author identifies as a feminist, arguing that true social progress is impossible without dismantling systemic gender biases.
- equalist
- women's rights advocate
- misogynist
- sexist
2 relating to feminism (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

describing an idea, book, or action that supports the goal of equal rights for women.

relating to or supporting the principles of feminism.

Example

The movie was praised for its strong feminist message and realistic female characters.

Example

The professor provided a feminist critique of the nineteenth-century novel, highlighting the restricted agency of its female protagonist.
- pro woman
- anti feminist

Origin

First recorded in English 1852. Ultimately from Latin fēminīnus, from fēmina (“woman”). See also feminine, feminism.