Drivers

/ˈdraɪvərz/ noun

Definition

people who operate vehicles; factors that cause or influence something

Etymology

from drive + -er, from Old English drīfan 'to drive'

Kelly Says

In tech, drivers are software that help hardware communicate with operating systems

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Male-coded default despite women's century-long history as drivers, professional operators, and transportation innovators. Gendered insurance, hiring, and insurance practices persisted despite equal competence.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'drivers' neutrally; acknowledge that profession includes all genders. When discussing transportation history, center women's contributions to logistics and autonomous vehicle research.

Empowerment Note

Women pioneered professional transport: Bertha Benz (first long-distance driver), women ambulance drivers in WWI, and contemporary leaders in autonomous vehicle development often go unnamed.

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