BLUESTOCKING Meaning and
Definition
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A bluestocking is a term that historically refers to an intellectual or learned woman, often depicted as being more interested in intellectual pursuits than in conforming to traditional gender roles or expectations. The term originated in the mid-18th century and was applied to a group of educated, often middle-class women who held literary gatherings in their homes. These gatherings were seen as a radical departure from the social norm at the time, where women were usually confined to domestic duties and not encouraged to engage in intellectual pursuits.
The term "bluestocking" is believed to have derived from the informal dress code of these women, who were known to wear blue worsted stockings instead of the fashionable silk stockings worn by aristocratic ladies. The blue stockings were considered more practical and less ostentatious, reflecting the bluestockings' preference for intellectual pursuits over superficiality.
Over time, the term "bluestocking" has taken on a broader meaning, representing any woman who is intelligent, educated, and perhaps even unconventional in her interests or behavior. It can carry both positive and negative connotations. On one hand, it celebrates women's intellectual achievements and challenges societal expectations. On the other hand, it can be used to belittle or criticize women who are perceived as nonconforming or overly intellectual.
Common Misspellings for BLUESTOCKING
- vluestocking
- nluestocking
- hluestocking
- gluestocking
- bkuestocking
- bpuestocking
- bouestocking
- blyestocking
- blhestocking
- bljestocking
- bliestocking
- bl8estocking
- bl7estocking
- bluwstocking
- blusstocking
- bludstocking
- blurstocking
- blu4stocking
- bluestockin
- Blustockins
- Blooestocking
Etymology of BLUESTOCKING
The word "bluestocking" originated in the mid-18th century in England. It combines two elements: "blue" and "stocking".
"Blue" with reference to intellectual pursuits had been used as a term since the late 17th century, stemming from the phrase "blue ribbon". In the 13th century, the Order of the Garter, an English chivalric order, was founded, and its members were often depicted wearing blue garters. Over time, the phrase "blue ribbon" became associated with high status and distinction. By the late 17th century, it had evolved to describe an intellectual academy or society.
"Stocking" refers to a type of hosiery worn on the legs, particularly the long, plain blue worsted stockings that were commonly worn by men in the 18th century. They were considered a mark of simplicity and practicality, rather than fashionable or extravagant attire.
Similar spelling words for BLUESTOCKING
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