womanhood

noun

wom·​an·​hood ˈwu̇-mən-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce womanhood (audio)
 especially Southern  ˈwō-,
 or  ˈwə-
1
a
: the state of being a woman
b
: the distinguishing character or qualities of a woman or of womankind
2

Examples of womanhood in a Sentence

a young girl on the verge of womanhood What is your view of womanhood? The book is a celebration of womanhood.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Dean’s designs not only showcased her unparalleled craftsmanship but also celebrated the multifaceted beauty and strength of Black womanhood. Essence, 25 June 2025 In a celebration of womanhood, there’s a host of suitably fabulous women, including (RED) supporters and friends of La DoubleJ, including Iman, Noma Dumezweni, Laura Brown, JJ. Felicity Carter, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 Oak Flat, on the edge of the Tonto National Forest about an hour outside Phoenix and not far from the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, is used by the Apache for sweats and for coming-of-age ceremonies known as Sunrise Dances, where young girls are ushered into womanhood. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025 Set to hit shelves in January 2026, The Future Saints explores themes of womanhood, fame and unexpected love, in the midst of a moving arc of redemption. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for womanhood

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of womanhood was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Womanhood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/womanhood. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

womanhood

noun
wom·​an·​hood ˈwu̇m-ən-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce womanhood (audio)
1
: the state of being a woman
2
: qualities associated with women
3

More from Merriam-Webster on womanhood

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