The Definition of a Female: What Does it Mean to Be a Female?

A female is a person who is biologically born of the female gender. Females are typically characterized by having two X chromosomes in their cells. The anatomy and physiology of a female body separate them from males and generally includes distinct reproductive organs, sexual traits, and secondary sexual characteristics.

The Social Roles of Females

In many societies, females play important social roles including child-rearing and household management, both roles that provide a crucial foundation for the larger society. Being a female often comes with a unique set of responsibilities and expectations, and these responsibilities and expectations can vary significantly from culture to culture. Historically, females were often excluded from active participation in a variety of arenas including politics and economics; while there has been tremendous progress in recent decades in loosening these restrictions, many gender-based double standards remain in place.

Females and Empowerment

In the last few centuries, strong movements have emerged supporting the empowerment of women. From female suffrage and the right to vote, to gender parity in the workplace and society at large, progress has been made in acknowledging and respecting the power and presence of female individuals. Education is often key to empowerment, as it can help create capacity and opportunity by exposing individuals to new ideas and experiences. Moreover, through support of individuals, organizations, and governments, many girls and women are now being offered the chance to access education and reach their fullest potential.

The definition and roles of a female are complex and shifting; female identity is varied and unique, and much more than simply a biological construct. A female is an individual in her own right, a capable, active member of society with the power and purpose to shape her own destiny. As such, those of us who are capable of helping to improve gender equality and promote female empowerment need to continue striving for a better future for all.