# womanhood

/ˈwʊmənˌhʊd/ (US) · /wˈʊmənhˌʊd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/womanhood
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the state of being a woman. It can also describe the qualities or experiences that are traditionally associated with being a woman.

For teachers: the state or condition of being a woman. Often used to describe the collective social, cultural, or psychological characteristics associated with the female sex.

## Examples

- She spent her life exploring the meaning of womanhood.
- The documentary explores how different cultures define womanhood and the expectations placed on women.
- The transition into womanhood often involves a complex negotiation of personal identity and the external roles society assigns to the individual based on gender.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.