Bluestocking
/ˈbluːstɑːkɪŋ/noun
An educated woman who enjoys studying and reading.
In the 18th century, she was considered a bluestocking because of her interest in literature and philosophy.
Often appears as...
- bluestocking society
- bluestocking circle
Usage tips
Formal
Historical
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Usage
In historical contexts, 'bluestocking' referred to women breaking gender norms by engaging in intellectual pursuits.
Her grandmother was a proud bluestocking, advocating for women's education.
Pro Tip 2/3Possible Disrespect
'Bluestocking' can sound outdated and possibly disrespectful; use it cautiously in modern contexts.
Refer to her as a scholar, not a bluestocking, to avoid old-fashioned connotations.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Reference
The term may allude to the 18th-century Bluestocking Society, a group for intellectual women.
She admired the Bluestocking Society and aspired to create a similar group in her college.
Compare with
academehighbrowintellectintellectualscholarthink
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