Aviatrixes

/ˌeɪviəˈtrɪksɪz/ noun

Definition

Plural of aviatrix; multiple female aviators.

Etymology

English plural of the Latin-derived feminine noun 'aviatrix.' Like 'matrix/matrices,' it can take either the Anglicized plural '-es' or follow the Latin pattern.

Kelly Says

Words borrowed from Latin with '-trix' endings show how English borrowed scientific and professional terminology wholesale, creating these elaborate plural forms that still puzzle English speakers today.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

English plural of 'aviatrix'; used through mid-20th century. Like singular, it marked female pilots as a distinct grammatical/social category, reinforcing the idea that aviation's norm was male.

Inclusive Usage

Use only in historical contexts with original sources. Never generically. Modern reference should use 'aviators' or 'pilots' regardless of pilot gender.

Inclusive Alternatives

["aviators","pilots"]

Empowerment Note

The women featured in 1930s magazines as 'aviatrixes' were breaking occupational barriers; the gendered term was both recognition and limitation.

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