A person who opposes feminism or women's equality; relating to opposition toward feminist principles and movements.
From anti- + feminist (advocate for feminism). Emerged as feminism became an organized movement in the 1800s, with opponents using this label to identify themselves and their ideology.
The interesting paradox: many antifeminists throughout history were women themselves, convinced that traditional roles protected them—a reminder that opposing your own interests is more common than we admit.
The term 'antifeminist' labels opposition to gender equality movements. This framing has been used to discredit women's advocacy and frame equality-seeking as fringe or extreme, particularly affecting how women's political participation is rhetorically positioned.
Describe specific opposition to particular feminist goals rather than labeling people. Use 'opposed to gender equality measures' or name the specific policy dispute.
["opposed to gender equality","gender equality skeptic"]
Feminist scholars emphasize that antifeminism is not neutral disagreement but an active resistance to women's liberation that requires sustained feminist labor to counter.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.