The correct spelling of the word "ivillage" is actually "iVillage", with a capital "V". This online community for women was founded in 1995 and acquired by NBC Universal in 2006. The phonetic transcription for "iVillage" is /ˈaɪˌvɪlɪdʒ/, with the stressed syllable on the "vil" part. It is composed of the letter "i" that stands for "internet" and "Village" that refers to a community. Thus, iVillage is an online community where women can connect, share information and find support.
iVillage was an online community and media company that focused on creating content for women. Founded in 1995 by Candice Carpenter as a subsidiary of Circle of Moms, iVillage aimed to empower and connect women by providing them with a platform to share experiences, seek advice, and engage in discussions on various topics. iVillage offered a range of content including articles, forums, and blogs covering subjects such as parenting, relationships, health, career, and entertainment.
At its core, iVillage was designed to foster a sense of community among its users, functioning as a virtual village or town where women could connect and find support. Through its interactive features, iVillage allowed women to ask questions, share personal stories, and seek guidance from others facing similar situations.
Over time, iVillage evolved to include additional features such as personalized content, expert advice, and online tools. The platform aimed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of its audience, providing a comprehensive resource for women of all backgrounds and stages of life.
iVillage was a pioneer in the realm of online communities for women, playing a significant role in shaping the landscape of digital platforms focused on empowering and connecting females. Although it eventually ceased operations, iVillage's influence and legacy persist as a precursor to the multitude of online communities and media platforms that continue to provide women with support, advice, and opportunities for connection.
The word "iVillage" is a portmanteau of two words: "i" and "village".
The prefix "i" is commonly associated with Apple Inc.'s products, most notably the iPhone, iPod, and iMac. The "i" in these products stands for "internet", "individual", or "internet-related capabilities". It is often used to convey that a product or service is connected to the internet or offers personalized experiences.
The term "village" refers to a small community or settlement. It can also depict a close-knit social group or network of individuals sharing common interests, values, or goals.
When combined, "iVillage" suggests a digital community or network of individuals connected via the internet. The term was specifically used for an online community and website targeting women, offering various forums, articles, and resources related to topics of interest for women.