A woman who represents or embodies the characteristics of an ordinary or typical woman; the female equivalent of 'everyman'.
Parallel formation to 'everyman' from 'every' and 'woman' (Old English 'wīfman'). Gained prominence in feminist literature and discourse as a counterpart to the male-centric 'everyman'.
The term 'everywoman' emerged in feminist criticism as scholars pointed out that 'everyman' was literally male—'everywoman' fixed that and highlighted how supposedly universal terms were actually gendered!
Parallel construction to 'everyman'; emerged mid-20th century as intentional feminist counter-language to assert women's place in universal narratives.
Use as inclusive or gendered intentionally; 'everywoman' can signal inclusive feminism when paired with 'everyman' or used standalone for universal reference.
Second-wave feminists reclaimed 'everywoman' to center women's experiences in universal discourse, countering historical male-default generics.
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