How Do You Spell GOLLIWOGS?

Pronunciation: [ɡəlˈiːwɒɡz] (IPA)

The word "golliwogs" is often spelled with two L's and two G's, but it can also be spelled with one L and one G, as "gollywogs". The pronunciation remains the same, using the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈɡɒlɪwɒɡz/. This word describes a type of doll with a black face and woolly hair, often seen as a racist stereotype. The use of this word has stirred controversy in recent years, and many people argue that it should be removed from popular culture.

GOLLIWOGS Meaning and Definition

1. The term "golliwogs" refers to a fictional character or toy commonly portrayed as a black-faced rag doll. Originating in the late 19th century, golliwogs were often represented as mischievous yet lovable characters, typically wearing colorful clothing and featuring exaggerated facial expressions such as large eyes and wide smiles. Historically, golliwogs have been a controversial topic due to their racial caricature and portrayal of negative stereotypes.

   The golliwog archetype gained popularity in children's literature, particularly in Britain, through books such as "The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls and a Golliwogg" by Florence Kate Upton. However, as society grew more aware of the offensive nature of racial stereotypes, criticism towards golliwogs arose, leading to their disappearance from mainstream media.

   The doll's appearance, with coal-black skin, frizzy hair, and exaggerated features, has perpetuated harmful racial stereotypes and contributed to a long history of racial discrimination. Over time, the negative connotations associated with golliwogs have resulted in the term being widely considered offensive and racially insensitive.

   Today, the use of golliwogs is seen as inappropriate and disrespectful, as it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fails to recognize the diversity and dignity of different races and ethnicities. Further understanding and education about the implications of golliwogs have led to their gradual removal from the public sphere.

Common Misspellings for GOLLIWOGS

• gollywogs
• Goelliwogs
• Golleywogs

Etymology of GOLLIWOGS

The word "golliwogs" has a controversial and complex etymology. It originated as a character name and became associated with racial stereotypes. Here is a brief overview:

The term "golliwog" was coined by Florence Kate Upton in the late 19th century. In 1895, Upton wrote a children's book called "The Adventures of Two Dutch Dolls and a Golliwogg", in which "golliwogg" referred to a black-faced doll with frizzy hair.

The exact origin of the term is uncertain. Some suggest that "golliwogg" may have been derived from "golly", a British slang term for "great" or "wonderful". Others argue that it may have been derived from the golliwog bird, a species found in Egypt.

Similar spelling words for GOLLIWOGS

• golliwog,
• golliwogg.