feminism

noun

fem·​i·​nism ˈfe-mə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce feminism (audio)
: belief in and advocacy of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes expressed especially through organized activity on behalf of women's rights and interests
feministic adjective

Examples of feminism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her feminism thus revolves around radical care: Through critical empowerment, KASIBULAN members can continue caring for one another and for marginalized communities, particularly Filipino farmers. Hung Duong, Artforum, 18 June 2025 The second wave of feminism continued into the 70s, birthing key milestones like the publication of Gloria Steinem’s Ms. magazine and the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade. Christina Hillsberg, People.com, 16 June 2025 The archetype of the Siren is very symbolized by femininity and feminism, and power and allure. Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025 Underlying this divide are perceptions that the advancements of feminism have not resolved, or may even have exacerbated, the challenges faced by boys and young men. Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for feminism

Word History

Etymology

see feminine entry 1

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of feminism was in 1893

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Feminism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feminism. Accessed 26 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

feminism

noun
fem·​i·​nism ˈfem-ə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce feminism (audio)
1
: the theory supporting the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes
2
: organized activity on behalf of women's rights and interests
feminist noun or adjective
feministic adjective

Medical Definition

feminism

noun
fem·​i·​nism ˈfem-ə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce feminism (audio)
: the presence of female characteristics in males

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