Cosmopolitans

/ˌkɒzməˈpɒlɪtənz/ noun

Definition

Plural of cosmopolitan; people who are at home in many different countries and cultures, or a cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice, and other ingredients.

Etymology

From cosmopolitan, which combines Greek kosmos (world) and polis (city). The cocktail meaning emerged in the 1980s-90s as the word took on modern cultural associations with sophistication and travel.

Kelly Says

The drink became iconic after the TV show 'Sex and the City' featured it constantly, but the word 'cosmopolitan' as a person goes back to ancient Rome, where wealthy traders who knew multiple languages and cultures were called cosmopolitans.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Historically, cosmopolitan intellectuals, philosophers, and travelers were predominantly male in recorded literature and canon. Women's transnational perspectives were less documented and credited despite equal participation in global movements.

Inclusive Usage

Use inclusively when referencing mixed groups; acknowledge women cosmopolitans explicitly when discussing intellectual history.

Inclusive Alternatives

["global citizens","transnational thinkers"]

Empowerment Note

Women cosmopolitans like Hannah Arendt, Émilie du Châtelet, and contemporary global feminists shaped cosmopolitan thought; ensure their contributions are centered in discourse.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.