FLAPPER Meaning and
Definition
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Flapper refers to a term used predominantly in the 1920s to describe a young woman, often from an urban setting, who embraced a more liberated and unconventional lifestyle. A flapper was characterized by her desire to challenge the traditional societal norms of the time and was associated with the "Jazz Age" and the Roaring Twenties. The term flapper is believed to originate from the youthful exuberance with which these women "flapped" their arms while dancing.
Flappers were recognized for their distinct fashion choices, such as short bobbed hair, shorter skirt lengths, and dropped waistlines. They also expressed their newfound freedom by indulging in activities traditionally considered male-dominated, such as smoking, drinking, and driving automobiles. Their rebellious spirit was further displayed through their involvement in the pursuit of pleasure, frequently attending parties, socializing, and dancing all night long.
These young women heralded a cultural shift away from the conventional values of earlier generations, embracing a more independent and modern lifestyle. Flappers symbolized a breakaway from the restrictions of the past and represented a generation eager to challenge societal norms and expectations. While some viewed them as scandalous and a sign of moral decline, flappers played a significant role in shaping women's rights and their newfound role in society.
While the term flapper originated in the 1920s, its impact on popular culture has endured and continues to signify a symbol of female empowerment, liberation, and the evolving role of women in society.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for FLAPPER
Etymology of FLAPPER
The word "flapper" originated around the 18th century and initially referred to a young bird learning to fly. The term gained a figurative sense in the early 20th century to describe a young woman who was unconventional and rebellious, particularly during the 1920s. The exact etymology of "flapper" remains uncertain, but there are a few theories surrounding its origin:
1. One theory suggests that "flapper" might derive from the Scottish word "flap" or "flapper", meaning "a young girl" or "a teenage girl". This usage of "flap" was recorded in the Scottish National Dictionary in the early 1900s.
2. Another theory relates "flapper" to the act of a young woman flapping her arms while dancing the Charleston or other popular dances of the 1920s.
Similar spelling words for FLAPPER
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