National Female Day

Hey there, folks! Have you ever wondered about National Female Day? Well, you're in luck because I've got the scoop for you. This special day celebrates all the amazing women out there who have made and continue to make a difference in the world. From trailblazing scientists to fearless leaders, National Female Day is a time to honor and appreciate the contributions of women everywhere.

When is Female Day?

It's national female day on the 8th March.

The Internet History of National Female Day

Did you know that National Female Day first gained popularity on March 8, 2016? That's right, this day has its roots in the online world, where people started recognizing and sharing stories of remarkable women who have influenced their lives. Social media platforms were buzzing with posts dedicated to female role models, inspirational quotes, and messages of empowerment.

Since then, National Female Day has grown into a global celebration, with events and activities taking place all around the world. From gatherings and conferences to virtual panels and workshops, there are countless ways to participate and show your support for women's achievements.

On National Female Day, people unite to shine a spotlight on the remarkable accomplishments of women throughout history. It's a day to reflect on progress made and to inspire future generations to continue breaking barriers and pursuing their dreams.

One of the greatest things about National Female Day is the opportunity to highlight the achievements of women from all walks of life. From pioneering scientists like Marie Curie to legendary artists like Frida Kahlo, there's no shortage of incredible stories to share.

So, whether you celebrate by sharing your own story or by appreciating the women who have impacted your life, National Female Day is a chance to uplift and empower women everywhere. Let's keep celebrating their achievements and working towards a more equal and inclusive world!

History behind the term 'Female'

1650

Ancient Origins

The term 'female' finds its origins in the Latin word 'femella' which means a young woman or girl. This term was commonly used in ancient times to refer to the feminine gender.

1387

Origin of the term 'female'

The term 'female' is derived from the Middle English word 'femele,' meaning 'of the feminine sex.' It was first recorded in 1387 and quickly gained usage as a noun to describe women or girls.

14th century

Origin of the term

The term 'female' originates from the Old French word 'femele,' which is derived from the Latin word 'femella' meaning 'young woman' or 'young female.' It was commonly used to distinguish the sex of an individual, particularly in relation to animals.

1600s

A linguistic shift

In the 1600s, the term 'female' emerged as a scientific term in English to differentiate between the sexes of animals. Previously, the term 'woman' was used indiscriminately for both human females and female animals. The term 'female' was derived from the Latin word 'femella', meaning 'young woman' or 'girl'. This linguistic shift marked the beginning of the term's usage to specifically refer to the biological sex of females across species.

c. 1382

The Introduction of the Term

The term 'female' is first documented in English in the late 14th century, derived from the Old French word 'femele', which originated from the Latin word 'femella', meaning 'young woman'. Initially, 'female' was used as a noun to refer specifically to a woman or girl.

14th century

The Arrival of 'female'

The term 'female' first appeared in the English language in the 14th century. It derived from the Old French word 'femelle,' which ultimately comes from the Latin word 'femella,' meaning 'young woman' or 'maid.' Initially, 'female' was used as both an adjective and a noun to describe the sex of a person or an animal.

14th century

Origins of the term

The term 'female' originated in the 14th century from the Old French word 'femele', which was derived from the Latin word 'femella'. In Latin, 'femella' referred to a young woman or a girl. Over time, the word 'femele' evolved to become 'femelle' in Middle English, and eventually 'female' in modern English. Initially, the term was used to distinguish the gender of animals.

14th century

Etymology of 'female'

The term 'female' originated in the 14th century from the Middle English word 'femelle,' which was derived from the Old French word 'femelle' meaning 'a female animal.' The word had its roots in the Latin word 'femella,' which referred to a young female or a girl. From its early origins, the term 'female' was primarily used in the context of distinguishing between sexes in the animal kingdom.

12th Century

Latin roots

The term 'female' originated from the Latin word 'femella,' which means 'young woman' or 'girl.' The Latin word stems from the Old Latin 'femna,' which referred to a woman in general. The word 'female' was used primarily to describe the sex of an individual without specifying age or maturity.

15th century

Extension to Human Females

In the 15th century, the term 'female' expanded its usage to specifically refer to human females. During this time, the word 'male' was already used to describe human males, and 'female' became its counterpart. The expanded usage of 'female' helped to create a more comprehensive language for discussing gender.

17th century

Establishment in English

In the 17th century, the term 'female' became widely used in the English language to refer to women or girls. It was used alongside the male counterpart 'male' to denote the different sexes in human beings.

17th century

Wider usage

In the 17th century, the term 'female' started to be used more widely to refer to human women. It became a commonly used adjective to describe the biological sex of individuals. With the increasing recognition of gender equality, the term 'female' helped highlight the distinction between male and female, and played a significant role in discussions surrounding human rights and gender studies.

15th century

Expanding Usage of 'female'

In the 15th century, the usage of 'female' expanded to encompass not just gender but also to describe the reproductive role of women in relation to biology. The term became associated with the ability to bear offspring and was used to distinguish between male and female reproductive systems.

1667

Introduction of 'female' into scientific classification

In 1667, the renowned English natural philosopher John Ray used the term 'female' to denote the sex of plants and animals in his work 'Catalogue of English Words.' This marked the first known instance of the term being used in scientific classification.

1852

Usage as a Biological Descriptor

In 1852, the term 'female' expanded its meaning beyond just a social identifier and became widely used in the field of biology. It started being employed as an adjective to indicate the sex of an organism capable of producing eggs or offspring, contrasting with the term 'male' denoting organisms capable of producing sperm. This usage became crucial in distinguishing the reproductive roles in plants and animals.

1700s

Female as an adjective

By the 1700s, 'female' had become an adjective to describe anything related to or characteristic of the female sex. It was commonly used to distinguish female plants from male plants in the field of botany. Additionally, 'female' was also used to describe the gender of roles, such as 'female teacher' or 'female doctor', where the gender of the profession was emphasized.

1596

Early Usage in English

The word 'female' made its way into the English language during the late 16th century. It was borrowed from the Middle French word 'femelle', which was derived from the Latin term 'femella'.

14th Century

English adaptation

During the 14th century, the term 'female' was adopted into the English language. It was derived from the Latin word 'femella' but with a slight phonetic alteration to align with the English language. The term 'female' maintained its general usage, referring to women across various stages of life.

1800s

Expanding beyond biology

During the 1800s, the term 'female' expanded beyond its biological connotation and began to encompass various aspects of femininity. It was used to describe societal roles, behavior, and identity associated with women. In literature and art, 'female' was a common term used to discuss female characters, often highlighting their unique traits and experiences.

16th century

Establishment of 'female' as a Noun

By the 16th century, 'female' became firmly established as a noun referring to women or animals of the sex that can bear offspring. It became a common term used in various contexts such as literature, scientific writings, and everyday conversations, cementing its presence in the English language.

18th century

Scientific classification

In the 18th century, the term 'female' gained significance in scientific classification. Scientists used it to describe the reproductive or sexual characteristics of organisms, distinguishing them from males. This helped in categorizing and understanding various species and their reproductive processes.

17th century

Emerging Gender Differences

By the 17th century, the term 'female' began to play a role in discussions around gender differences and roles. It was used to distinguish the biological and sociocultural characteristics associated with women, and it helped to shape societal perceptions and expectations of femininity. The term was utilized in various fields, including literature, science, and social sciences, to further explore and define the concept of femininity.

1920

Adoption in Legal Terminology

By the early 20th century, 'female' had permeated legal terminology, gaining significance as a gender-specific identifier in various legal contexts. It played a vital role in laws pertaining to marriage, inheritance, and other legal divisions based on gender. This inclusion highlighted the increasing recognition of women's rights and gender equality issues within the legal system, albeit with ongoing challenges and disparities.

19th Century

Scientific classification

In the 19th century, the term 'female' gained importance in scientific discourse, primarily in the field of biology. It became a crucial term for categorizing the sex of organisms, distinguishing between males and females based on reproductive anatomy and features. This scientific classification extended beyond humans and was employed in the study of plants and animals as well.

1769

Scientific Classification

In the field of biology, the term 'female' was adopted to describe the sex that typically produces eggs or ovum. The Swedish botanist and physician Carl Linnaeus is credited with establishing the binomial nomenclature system and popularizing the use of 'female' in scientific classification.

1799

Usage of 'female' as a counterpart to 'male'

The term 'female' became commonly used in the late 18th century as a counterpart to the term 'male.' This usage helped to distinguish the sexes in various contexts, including biology, sociology, and anthropology.

19th century

Scientific classification

During the 19th century, the term 'female' became prevalent in scientific and biological contexts. It was used to describe the sex of animals, plants, and other organisms. The study of female reproductive systems and traits became a significant area of research in various scientific fields. The term 'female' also found its place in medical terminology, aiding in the understanding and classification of biological differences between males and females.

20th Century

Gender discussions

During the 20th century, discussions surrounding gender and sex gained prominence. The term 'female' became a subject of examination as gender rights movements tackled issues related to equality and inclusivity. The significance of the term expanded beyond its biological context to encompass societal, cultural, and political aspects, emphasizing the roles and experiences associated with being female.

19th century

Advancement of Women's Rights

In the 19th century, the term 'female' took on added significance as a rallying point for women's rights movements. It became a term of empowerment and solidarity for women seeking gender equality, independence, and voting rights. The emergence of women's suffrage movements actively employed the term 'female' to unify women around the world and advocate for their social, economic, and political rights.

20th century

Changing societal norms

Throughout the 20th century, the meaning and implications of the term 'female' continued to evolve. It became an integral part of discussions surrounding gender identity, gender roles, and feminism. The term 'female' played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights and challenging traditional gender stereotypes. It also became important in recognizing and raising awareness about the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals who identify as female.

1848

The emergence of 'female' in women's rights literature

In 1848, 'female' began to appear more prominently in women's rights literature, such as the famous 'Declaration of Sentiments' presented at the Seneca Falls Convention. The term was used to highlight the unique experiences, rights, and struggles of women.

1900s

Feminism and empowerment

In the 1900s, the term 'female' took on a deeper significance as a symbol of female empowerment and the feminist movement. It became a rallying term to emphasize women's rights and gender equality. The concept of 'female' was examined through critical lenses in fields such as sociology, psychology, and gender studies, shedding light on the diverse experiences and challenges faced by women.

1970s

Emergence in Feminist Discourse

The term 'female' became an integral part of feminist discourse during the 1970s. It was employed to underscore the significance of gender in discussions around patriarchy, sexism, and women's liberation movements. The usage of 'female' as an umbrella term encompassing the experiences of those assigned female at birth (AFAB) contributed to inclusive feminist dialogues, emphasizing intersectionality.

19th century

Feminist movements and gender studies

In the 19th century, the term 'female' gained further importance during the rise of feminist movements and the development of gender studies. It became a subject of discussion in terms of gender identity, roles, and equality. The term 'female' was used in these conversations to highlight the experiences and inequalities faced by women and girls.

1830

Expanding Usage

As society progressed and discussions on gender roles emerged, the term 'female' started to be used more broadly to describe women in different contexts, not just in biological or scientific settings. It became a common term to refer to the human sex that is characterized by reproductive organs capable of bearing offspring.

19th century

Medical and Scientific Advancements

In the 19th century, advancements in medical and scientific knowledge led to a deeper understanding of human biology. This period witnessed influential works by pioneering female scientists and researchers, contributing to the exploration of the female body and its unique characteristics. The term 'female' became a vital part of these discussions as it formed the basis for scientific categorization and study.

21st Century

Intersectional feminism

In the 21st century, the term 'female' continues to evolve within the framework of intersectional feminism. It promotes acknowledging the diverse experiences of individuals who identify as female, recognizing that gender intersects with race, ethnicity, class, and other factors. This inclusive perspective has contributed to reshaping the understanding of the term 'female' in contemporary society.

Present

Inclusive representation

Today, the term 'female' continues to be an essential component of discussions around gender and equality. It is used to advocate for more inclusive representation of women in various spheres, including politics, science, and entertainment. The term has evolved alongside societal progress, remaining a dynamic term that encompasses both biological identity and multifaceted aspects of womanhood.

Present day

Modern usage and inclusivity

In modern usage, the term 'female' continues to be used to refer to the sex of individuals, animals, or plants. Additionally, it is recognized as an identity in itself, encompassing a broad range of gender identities and expressions. The term 'female' is often employed in inclusive language to acknowledge and support individuals who identify as female, while also promoting equal rights and opportunities for all genders.

20th century

Diversification and Inclusion

Throughout the 20th century, the term 'female' continued to evolve and diversify in its usage. It became more inclusive of the diverse experiences and identities within the female gender. The term 'female' transcended biological distinctions and recognized the social and cultural aspects of gender identity. It played a vital role in fostering conversations on gender equality, intersectionality, and the rights and experiences of women.

Present Day

Continued Usage and Evolution

In the present day, 'female' remains a widely used term, encompassing both biological and social dimensions. While it is often utilized as a scientific descriptor, describing the sex of organisms or humans, its application as a social identifier continues to evolve. Contemporary discussions center on the importance of respectful terminology and recognizing individual agency in self-identifying. The term 'female' forms a crucial part of ongoing conversations related to gender equality, women's rights, and societal stereotypes.

21st century

Continued usage and inclusivity

In the 21st century, the term 'female' continues to be widely used to refer to women and girls, and in scientific and medical contexts. However, there have been discussions surrounding inclusivity and recognizing diverse gender identities. Some individuals prefer alternative terms or broader categories to acknowledge gender diversity beyond the binary concept of 'male' and 'female.'

20th century

Feminist Movement and Gender Equality

The 20th century saw the rise of the feminist movement, advocating for gender equality and challenging societal norms. The term 'female' became politically charged, and its usage evolved to highlight women's rights, empowerment, and recognition. It became a symbol of resilience, breaking free from traditional gender roles, and embracing the diversity of female identities.

1848

Women's Rights Movement

The mid-19th century saw the rise of the women's rights movement, with the historic Seneca Falls Convention in New York taking place in 1848. This pivotal event sparked discussions about gender equality, leading to an increased focus on the term 'female' as a way to assert the rights and recognition of women.

1970s

Expanding usage of 'female' in gender studies

Starting in the 1970s, the term 'female' gained broader usage in the field of gender studies. It became an important concept for analyzing gender dynamics, social structures, and power relations. The term helped to deconstruct gender as a binary construct and paved the way for more inclusive understandings of identity.

Present

Continued usage and evolution

Today, the term 'female' continues to be widely used to refer to the biological sex of an individual. It also plays a crucial role in conversations around gender equality, representation, and identity. As societal norms and discussions continue to evolve, the term 'female' remains an essential part of the ongoing discourse.

Present Day

Inclusive and Empowering Language

In the present day, the term 'female' continues to evolve, reflecting the changing perspectives and understanding of gender. Efforts are made to ensure inclusive language that respects the diverse experiences and identities of women. 'Female' is now used alongside other terms to acknowledge the social and cultural dimensions of gender, promoting inclusivity, and fostering dialogue about gender equality.

1960

Feminist Terminology

During the feminist movement of the 1960s and 1970s, there was a shift in language to empower women and challenge societal norms. The term 'female' became closely associated with feminist discourse, emphasizing the unique experiences and perspectives of women in a patriarchal society.

Today

Modern Usage

In modern times, the term 'female' continues to be widely used to refer to women and girls. It is a neutral and inclusive term that acknowledges the biological aspect of sex while encompassing the diverse identities and roles of women in society.

Did you know?

Did you know that National Female Day is celebrated on March 8th of each year? This date was chosen to coincide with International Women's Day, another important day dedicated to gender equality and women's rights.