Past tense of shave; removed hair from skin using a razor or similar tool. Cut very thin slices or reduced something by small amounts.
From Old English 'sceafan' meaning to scrape or cut, related to Germanic roots. The word originally referred to any scraping action before specializing in hair removal.
Archaeological evidence shows humans have been shaving for over 100,000 years, using shells, flint, and other sharp objects. The phrase 'close shave' meaning a narrow escape comes from the precision required to shave without cutting oneself.
Body hair removal, especially for women, became gendered marketing in the 20th century (Gillette campaigns, 1910s-onwards). Male facial hair remained unmarked while female body hair was framed as abnormal, creating asymmetrical beauty norms.
Use descriptively for any person's choice; avoid implying shaving is feminine or obligatory. Recognize it as preference, not norm.
["hair-removed","smooth"]
Women's body autonomy includes choice to shave or not; feminist discourse reclaims unshaved bodies as normal, rejecting gendered grooming mandates.
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