A female champion or winner in a competition, sport, or cause.
From 'champion' (from Old French 'champion', originally meaning a fighter in combat) + the feminine suffix '-ess'. The suffix '-ess' has been used since Middle English to indicate female versions of masculine nouns.
While 'championess' appeared in historical texts, most modern English speakers just say 'champion' for anyone regardless of gender, showing how language naturally drops unnecessary gendered suffixes as society becomes more equal.
The -ess suffix historically feminized role nouns, often marking occupations as secondary or subordinate when applied to women. This pattern reinforced gendered job hierarchies.
Use champion for all genders. If historical reference is relevant, note the woman champion's achievement directly rather than marking gender with suffix.
["champion","female champion (if identity is relevant context)"]
Women champions in sports, science, and activism have been systematically rendered invisible by omitting them from general 'champion' references—restore visibility by using 'champion' equally for all.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.