Achiever

/əˈtʃiːvər/ noun

Definition

A person who accomplishes goals or reaches objectives, especially someone known for ambition and success.

Etymology

From achieve plus the agent suffix -er (one who does something). The word gained prominence in psychology and education during the 20th century, becoming a key concept in achievement theory.

Kelly Says

The label 'overachiever' is psychologically interesting—it implies that someone has exceeded expectations, yet exceeding expectations is literally their job, suggesting our expectations might just be wrong.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Career and achievement language historically centered male professional identity; 'achiever' entered modern usage during 20th-century workplace expansion when women's professional contributions were often unmarked or gendered as exceptional.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'achiever' equally for all genders. Ensure recognition of women's achievements isn't framed as surprising or secondary.

Inclusive Alternatives

["high performer","successful professional","goal-oriented person"]

Empowerment Note

Women founders, scientists, and leaders have shaped achievement frameworks; historically their accomplishments were credited to teams or mentors rather than individual capability.

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