A star is a huge, glowing ball of gas in space that gives off light and heat, like the Sun. The word also means a famous or outstanding person, especially in entertainment or sports, or the main performer in a show.
From Old English “steorra,” from Proto-Germanic *“sternō,” from Proto-Indo-European *“h₂stḗr” meaning “star.” It is related to similar words in many Indo-European languages, showing how ancient and universal the idea is.
We call celebrities ‘stars’ because, like real stars, they stand out brightly against a dark background and draw everyone’s attention. Even the star symbol (★) is a simplified picture of light rays shining out in all directions.
In entertainment and sports, 'star' status has often been more accessible to men, and coverage of women 'stars' has frequently focused on appearance and personal life over skill. The term can carry different expectations for men and women, with women more harshly judged for aging or personal choices.
Use 'star' based on achievement or prominence without applying different standards by gender. When highlighting stars in any field, ensure women and gender‑diverse people are represented and discussed in terms of their work, not only their looks or relationships.
["leader","standout","top performer"]
Women stars in science, arts, and sports have often faced both visibility and backlash; recognizing their expertise and leadership on equal terms helps counteract that history.
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