A sphere is a perfectly round three-dimensional shape, like a ball, where every point on the surface is the same distance from the center. It can also mean an area of activity or influence.
From Middle English *spere*, from Old French *esphere*, from Latin *sphaera*, from Greek *sphaira* “ball, globe.” It entered English through astronomy and geometry.
We use a geometric word for balls and planets and then metaphorically for “spheres of influence” or “social spheres.” It’s as if every area of life becomes its own little world you can move into or out of.
The term “sphere” has been used metaphorically in phrases like “separate spheres” to justify gendered divisions between public (male) and private/domestic (female) roles. This language reinforced rigid expectations about where different genders ‘belong.’
When using “sphere” metaphorically (e.g., “public sphere”), avoid endorsing or naturalizing gendered divisions; describe them as historical constructs, not inevitabilities.
["domain","area","field"]
When discussing the public and private spheres, highlight how women and gender minorities have challenged and reshaped these boundaries in politics, labor, and family life.
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