women's studies

noun

plural in form but singular or plural in construction
: the multidisciplinary study of the social status and societal contributions of women and the relationship between power and gender

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of women's studies was in 1972

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Cite this Entry

“Women's studies.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/women%27s%20studies. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

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