How Do You Spell PETTICOAT GOVERNMENT?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛtɪkˌə͡ʊt ɡˈʌvənmənt] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "petticoat government" may seem unusual to some, but it is simply a combination of words - petticoat meaning a woman's undergarment, and government referring to the ruling body of a society or state. The phonetic transcription of this phrase in IPA is /ˈpɛtɪkəʊt ˈɡʌvənmənt/, where the stress is on the first syllable of each word. The phrase is used to describe a government dominated by women, often in a derogatory way, suggesting that only weak and feminine leadership is possible.

PETTICOAT GOVERNMENT Meaning and Definition

1. Petticoat government is a term used to describe a situation where women hold significant power or influence in government or other decision-making bodies. It is often used in a derogatory manner, implying that women in positions of authority are being overly controlling or interfering.

   The phrase originated in the late 18th century and was originally used to criticize a government that was perceived to be weak or ineffective due to the influence of women. Over time, its meaning has evolved to reflect society's changing attitudes towards gender roles and women's rights.

   A petticoat, in this context, refers to a garment worn under a skirt to give it shape and fullness. It is typically associated with femininity and modesty. By using the term "petticoat government," critics sought to belittle women's abilities to effectively govern or exercise authority.

   However, it is important to note that the term is outdated and widely considered sexist and offensive today. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines the importance of gender equality in politics and leadership. Women have made significant contributions to governance and leadership throughout history, and using derogatory phrases like "petticoat government" undermines their achievements and capabilities.

2. Female rule; dominion or influence of a woman.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PETTICOAT GOVERNMENT

• oetticoat government
• letticoat government
• -etticoat government
• 0etticoat government
• pwtticoat government
• pstticoat government
• pdtticoat government
• prtticoat government
• p4tticoat government
• p3tticoat government
• perticoat government
• pefticoat government
• pegticoat government
• peyticoat government
• pe6ticoat government
• pe5ticoat government
• petricoat government
• petficoat government
• petgicoat government
• petyicoat government

Etymology of PETTICOAT GOVERNMENT

The term "petticoat government" originated in the 17th century in England. It combines two words: "petticoat", which refers to a skirt worn by women, and "government", signifying the ruling or governing body of a country or group. The phrase was initially used pejoratively to describe a scenario where women had substantial influence or control over men in political or social matters.

During this period, the idea of women exerting power or challenging traditional gender roles was often seen as unconventional and threatening to the established order. The term "petticoat government" was frequently employed to criticize male political figures who were perceived to be under the influence of women in their decision-making. It was intended to belittle and undermine both the women involved and the men perceived as being controlled by them.