Broideress

/ˈbrɔɪdərəs/ noun

Definition

Archaic feminine form of broiderer; a female needleworker or embroiderer.

Etymology

From broiderer with the -ess suffix, which historically marked feminine forms of occupational nouns in English.

Kelly Says

The -ess suffix created a distinct female version of occupations, but it faded as society stopped grammatically gendering jobs—'broideress' is a fossil of that older linguistic world.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Feminine suffix -ess applied to embroiderer, marking gender distinction unnecessary in occupational terms. Historical pattern of gendering craft roles despite work being gender-neutral.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'broiderer' for all practitioners regardless of gender. The base term is sufficient and accurate.

Inclusive Alternatives

["broiderer"]

Empowerment Note

Women dominated embroidery and needlework across centuries but were often rendered invisible in professional records; using occupational terms without gendered suffixes honors their labor equally.

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