womanhood

[woom-uhn-hood]

noun

1. the state of being a woman; womanly character or qualities.

2. women collectively.

   American womanhood.

womanhood

/ ˈwʊmənˌhʊd /

noun

1. the state or quality of being a woman or being womanly

2. women collectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of womanhood¹

A Middle English word dating back to 1325–75; woman, -hood

Example Sentences

For Collins, “Shirley Valentine” was more than just an ode to womanhood, self-love and self-discovery.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Her breezy, layered menswear in that film became a cultural touchstone, symbolizing a new kind of womanhood — intellectual, self-assured and a little eccentric.

Read more on Salon

It is also an important force in formulating a new model of womanhood: one that incorporates strong religious identity, a specific feminine aesthetic, and far-right ideas.

Read more on Salon

In this case, the right’s notions of “good” versus “bad” womanhood reveals a deep sickness.

Read more on Salon

The way I wanted to reflect Cécile’s interiority was of those detailed moments that you commit to memory that change how you perceive womanhood, or love, or intimacy.

Read more on Los Angeles Times