Jordan Shapiro
May 22, 2021

--

Yes, but note that all of your examples are terms that are etymologically connect to "woman."

Pussy, I don't have to explain.

Wimp, is a term from the early 20th century that literally means "girl." Used to be used like "dame" or "femme." The OED says it's an "abbreviated corruption" of "woman." Other sources connect it with "whimper." No matter what, it means "weak woman."

Wuss is a blend of wimp and pussy.

So, a bully might apply his terms to anyone, but ultimately, no matter whom he's talking to, he's putting women down.

--

--

Jordan Shapiro
Jordan Shapiro

Written by Jordan Shapiro

I wrote some books - Father Figure: How to Be a Feminist Dad & The New Childhood: Raising Kids to Thrive in a Connected World. I teach at Temple University.

Responses (1)