Beeman

/ˈbiːmæn/ noun

Definition

A person who keeps or manages bees; a beekeeper or apiarist.

Etymology

From 'bee' (Old English 'beo') + 'man.' Simple compound word reflecting the occupation of someone who works with bees.

Kelly Says

Beekeepers are having a cultural moment—as honeybee populations crash from pesticides and habitat loss, urban beekeeping has become this cool intersectionality of environmentalism, sustainability, and civic duty, making 'beeman' transform from an obscure rural job title to something almost rebelliously trendy.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Occupational title using 'man' as default. Historically, beekeeping was male-dominated in formal practice, though women managed apiaries domestically and were often unrecorded.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'beekeeper' or 'apiarist' instead. These gender-neutral terms are also more professional and modern.

Inclusive Alternatives

["beekeeper","apiarist"]

Empowerment Note

Women have managed bees for centuries in household contexts; formal beekeeping history often erases their contributions to apiary knowledge.

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