Eight words that reveal the sexism at the heart of English Language

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jan/27/eight-words-sexism-heart-english-language




States how certain terms which have negative connotations are continuously referenced to women, conveying a sexist society. The sexist terms are described as 'pejoration' meaning that these words used about women will only get worse, eight words have been chosen which are used mostly regarding women.




Mistress- Before the 17th century it had a meaning of 'a women having control or authority' however this has changed to a 'woman other than his wife with whom a man has a long-lasting sexual relationship'.


Hussy- Once a neutral term for head of a household, now used with only one meaning ' disreputable woman of improper behaviour'.


Madam- Female equivalent to 'sir' of a high ranking which is used to this day for a mode of address. However from the 18th century its meaning altered to 'a conceited or precocious girl or young woman; a hussy, a minx', which belittles the female.
Governess- Originally in the 15th century it defined to 'a woman who holds or exercises authority over a place, institution, or group of people, the meaning then dropped its status to 'a woman responsible for the care, supervision, or direction of a person, typically a child or young lady' which associates women with the 'housewife' role.
Spinster- This occupational term began by referring to both genders who spun yarn or thread. This changed as it became a way for unmarried women to make money. The term then changed within the 18th century 'a woman still unmarried; esp. one beyond the usual age for marriage, an old maid'
Courtesan- This term had a dramatic change in meaning from 'courtier'- attends the court of a Monarch, to a form of a prostitute which remains its only meaning.
Wench- A 13th century meaning of infant or young unmarried women which quickly changed in the 14th century to 'wanton women; mistress'.
Tart- It began with a meaning of 'sweetheart' a term of endearment, however in the 1800's it changed to 'a female with immoral character; prostitute' .







If we were to consider the male equivalent of these terms they would hold meanings of power and a higher status e.g. Governess- Governor. The eight words demonstrate how social conditions can alter the meaning of terms. Will terms placing females in a positive light face the same alteration to their meanings as Governess, Tart, Courtesan or Mistress; only time will tell.