virago etymology

Etymology

  • Latin vir, man + ago, agent

Meaning

  • A strong, courageous, and independent woman

Origin

The term "virago" has been used to describe women with masculine qualities since ancient times. The word is thought to have originated from the Latin word vir, meaning "man", and the suffix -ago, meaning "agent". This suggests that the term originally referred to women who acted like men, or who were seen as possessing masculine virtues.

In the 16th century, the term "virago" began to be used more specifically to describe women who were strong, courageous, and independent. This usage was popularised by the English playwright William Shakespeare, who used the term in several of his plays, including The Taming of the Shrew and Twelfth Night.

Today, the term "virago" is still used to describe women who are strong and independent. However, it can also be used in a more negative sense to describe women who are seen as being too masculine or aggressive.

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