Antifeministic

/ˌæntiːfɛmɪˈnɪstɪk/ adjective

Definition

Characterized by or expressing opposition to feminism, women's equality, or women's rights movements.

Etymology

Adjectival form of antifeminism, adding -ic suffix to create the descriptive form. Standard formation for describing ideological opposition to feminist principles and goals.

Kelly Says

Every generation produces antifeministic backlash—which tells us feminism keeps winning (you don't fight what you've already defeated), making this word a strange indicator of progress.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Antifeministic framing pathologizes feminist perspectives, positioning gender equality advocacy as excessive or dangerous. This language has been deployed to undermine women's political voice and delegitimize feminist scholarship and activism.

Inclusive Usage

Describe specific critiques or disagreements rather than using 'antifeministic' as a characterization. Be precise about which feminist positions are being disputed and why.

Inclusive Alternatives

["gender equality skeptical","critical of feminist approaches"]

Empowerment Note

Feminist theorists have analyzed how antifeministic rhetoric functions as a mechanism of control, making visible the rhetorical work required to sustain women's equality movements.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.