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woman

Primary Information
Secondary Information

Definition

The term "woman" is a social construct that refers to an adult female human. The definition of what it means to be a woman varies across cultures and time periods. However, some common characteristics that are associated with womanhood include:

  • Having female reproductive organs
  • Being able to bear children
  • Identifying as a woman

It is important to note that not all women have all of these characteristics. For example, some women may not be able to bear children due to medical reasons. Additionally, some people who identify as women may not have female reproductive organs.

The definition of womanhood is also constantly evolving. As society changes, so does the way that we think about gender. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize and celebrate the diversity of womanhood. This movement has led to the emergence of new terms, such as "non-binary" and "genderqueer," which are used to describe people who do not identify as strictly male or female.

Ultimately, the definition of womanhood is up to each individual woman to decide. There is no right or wrong way to be a woman.

How can the word be used?

The women were protesting for equal rights.

woman

Different forms of the word

Noun:

  • an adult female human being.
  • a group of female humans.

Adjective:

  • of or relating to women.

Etymology

The word "women" comes from the Old English word "wīfmann", which means "woman".

The first recorded use of the word "women" in English was in the 8th century.

Question

What are the characteristics of a woman?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Explain the biological process of menstruation in women. Discuss the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle and their role in preparing the body for pregnancy.

Answer:

Menstruation is a natural biological process that occurs in women of reproductive age. It involves the shedding of the uterine lining, which was built up in preparation for a potential pregnancy if fertilisation of an egg occurs.

The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone. The cycle has four main phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.

During the menstrual phase, the uterine lining is shed, resulting in bleeding. This marks the beginning of the cycle. In the follicular phase, under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), several follicles in the ovaries begin to mature. As these follicles develop, they release estrogen, which stimulates the growth of the uterine lining.

Ovulation occurs around the midpoint of the cycle. A surge in luteinising hormone (LH) triggers the release of a mature egg from one of the ovaries. Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, producing progesterone. Progesterone helps maintain the uterine lining and prepares it for possible embryo implantation.

If fertilisation does not occur, hormone levels drop, signalling the end of the luteal phase. The drop in progesterone causes the uterine lining to shed, initiating a new menstrual cycle.