As a verb, it means to let someone else have or use part of something you have. As a noun, it can mean a portion of something that is divided among people, or a unit of ownership in a company.
From Old English 'scearu' meaning 'a cutting, division, portion', related to 'shear' (to cut). The idea is of cutting something into parts for different people.
Sharing started as a cutting word—literally slicing something up so everyone gets a piece. Modern 'sharing' online (like sharing a post) is the digital version: dividing your attention and information among many people at once.
Expectations to 'share' emotional labor and personal information have often been placed disproportionately on women and caregivers, while their own needs were under-shared or ignored. In workplaces, women have been expected to share credit and opportunities more than men.
Use 'share' symmetrically—apply the same expectations of sharing information, credit, or emotional work across genders.
["disclose","distribute","divide","communicate"]
In discussions of collaboration and care, recognize how women and marginalized genders have historically shared knowledge and support, often without formal recognition.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.