The word "Monthlies" refers to a monthly periodical. Its spelling follows the pronunciation of the word "monthly." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /ˈmʌnθli/. The stress is on the first syllable "mun" with a short "u" sound, followed by a voiced "th" sound and "li" with a long "e" sound. Spelling the word as "Monthlies" adds the plural suffix "-ies" to the end of the word, denoting multiple issues of the periodical.
Monthlies is a term primarily used to refer to menstruation, which is the natural process of shedding the lining of the uterus and expelling it through the vagina during a woman's reproductive years. It is a monthly occurrence that typically lasts between two to seven days and is usually accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal cramping, bloating, and mood swings.
The term "monthlies" is colloquial and frequently used in informal or conversational contexts. It derived from the fact that menstruation often occurs on a monthly basis, with the menstrual cycle usually lasting approximately 28 days. The term "monthlies" is considered an abbreviated form of "monthly period."
While the word "monthlies" is primarily associated with menstruation, it can also be used in a broader sense to denote any type of monthly publication or occurrence. For example, it can refer to magazines or journals that are published on a monthly basis. This secondary usage of the term is less common than its association with menstruation.
It is worth noting that the word "monthlies" may vary in usage and meaning depending on cultural and regional contexts. In some societies, more specific or alternative terms are employed to refer to menstruation, while in others, "monthlies" may be the common or preferred term.
Menses.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word Monthlies is a colloquial term used to refer to a woman's menstrual period or menstruation. The etymology of this term is relatively straightforward. It is derived from the fact that a normal menstrual cycle lasts approximately one month, with bleeding usually occurring for several days during each cycle.
The term Monthlies gained popularity and became widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in English-speaking countries. It is a euphemistic and slightly informal term that was coined to avoid direct references to menstruation, which was considered a taboo subject during that time.
While the exact origin of the term is unclear, it likely emerged as a convenient and discreet way to discuss menstruation without explicitly using the word itself. Other similar euphemisms for menstruation also exist, including Aunt Flo and Time of the month.