male companions or academic researchers with special status
From Old Norse félagi 'partner, fellow', from fé 'cattle, money' + legja 'to lay down'
Originally meant someone you'd pool your cattle with - basically a business partner when cows were currency! The academic meaning came much later, but it still implies a special partnership.
Historically 'fellow' meant male peer or member of academic societies; women were excluded from 'fellowship' until mid-20th century, making the term implicitly masculine in institutional contexts.
Use 'colleagues,' 'peers,' or 'members' instead. If 'fellows' is used, ensure it genuinely includes all genders.
["colleagues","peers","members"]
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