Farde

/fɑrd/ noun

Definition

Cosmetics, paint, or makeup; beautifying substances applied to the face or body.

Etymology

Variant or noun form of 'fard,' from Old French 'farder.' This represents an older English spelling or a parallel development of the term, possibly influenced by French 'fard' (paint/cosmetic).

Kelly Says

Historical texts about Renaissance beauty standards mention 'farde' as a luxury item—queens and courtiers would have entire attendants managing their farde collections, making makeup application a theatrical production in itself.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Variant/plural of fard; same gendered cosmetics context—painted or adorned appearance coded as feminine and often suspect.

Inclusive Usage

Use descriptively. Avoid conflating appearance work with dishonesty or superficiality.

Inclusive Alternatives

["cosmetics","adornment"]

Empowerment Note

Recognition that appearance labor spans all genders and is valid self-expression, not deception.

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