feminize
|fem-i-nize|
/ˈfɛmɪnaɪz/
make female / make feminine
Etymology
'feminize' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'femina', where 'femina' meant 'woman', combined with the suffix '-ize' derived from Greek '-izein' via French '-iser' meaning 'to make or to cause to be'.
'feminize' changed from Medieval Latin/Latinized Medieval forms such as 'feminizare' and Old French 'feminiser' and eventually became the modern English 'feminize'.
Initially, it meant 'to make or become female' and over time it has retained that central sense while also extending to mean 'to make more feminine' or 'to increase female representation'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to make female in form, function, or gender; to assign or convert to a female gender or form.
The grammar reform aimed to feminize certain job titles in order to reflect female holders.
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Verb 2
to give or emphasize feminine qualities or characteristics; to make more feminine in appearance, behavior, or style.
She used clothing and makeup to feminize her appearance for the performance.
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Verb 3
to increase the proportion or participation of women in a group, institution, or activity.
The company launched initiatives to feminize its leadership pipeline over the next five years.
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Last updated: 2026/01/16 21:49