Vigor is strong energy, force, or health, especially when doing physical or mental activities.
From Anglo-French and Old French “vigor,” from Latin “vigor,” meaning “liveliness, activity, force,” from “vigēre,” meaning “to be lively or thrive.” The word has always carried the idea of active strength.
Vigor isn’t just about muscles; plants, economies, and even ideas can have vigor when they grow strongly. When people say “youthful vigor,” they’re really talking about both body and attitude being full of life.
"Vigor" and related terms like "virile" have historically been associated with masculine strength and energy, contributing to stereotypes that equate vigor with male bodies and sideline women's physical and intellectual stamina. This has influenced descriptions of leaders and workers in gendered ways.
Use "vigor" for any person's or group's energy or intensity without assuming or implying a particular gender. Avoid contrasting "vigor" with stereotypically "feminine" traits in ways that devalue them.
["energy","vitality","intensity","enthusiasm"]
Women athletes, scientists, and activists have long demonstrated physical and intellectual vigor despite cultural narratives that questioned or minimized women's endurance and strength.
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