Coiffeurs

/kwɑːˈfɜːrz/ noun

Definition

Plural of coiffeur; multiple male hairdressers or professional hair stylists.

Etymology

French plural of 'coiffeur' maintained in English when referring to multiple male hair professionals.

Kelly Says

The distinction between 'coiffeur' (male) and 'coiffeuse' (female) shows how French has gendered every profession—a linguistic feature English largely abandoned except in retained French words.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural of gendered 'coiffeur.' Perpetuates occupational gender hierarchy in French-language contexts.

Inclusive Usage

Prefer 'stylists' or 'hair professionals' in English; in French, consider 'coiffeurs/ses' or gender-neutral constructions.

Inclusive Alternatives

["stylists","hair professionals"]

Empowerment Note

Professional hair work remains feminized and underpaid globally; recognizing all practitioners equally regardless of gender honors undervalued labor.

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