We asked women what the most offensive names they’ve been called were over the years, and quite a few mentioned that although they are outdated, these names are heard more frequently than you might expect.
Hussy
Rare though it may be now, women who heard this word generally heard it used as a judgment on behavior, clothing, or relationships. Many women believed it was used as a way to shame women for things men would not be ridiculed for doing. Some women were surprised to find out how ancient this insult was. Most agreed that it symbolizes double standards that have never been eradicated.
Broad
A lot of women said they still hear this one from their older relatives, older coworkers, or random strangers. Sure, it might not have seemed offensive 50 years ago, but women nowadays find it belittling and disrespectful. We also found that not many women would ever refer to another woman as a “broad”.
Chick
This was one of the most commonly mentioned terms in our survey. A few women explained they are okay with it when used between friends, but many women are bothered by men whom they don’t know well referring to them as chicks.
The women who responded also said that you never hear men referring to other grown men as “boys”. However, it is very common to hear grown women referred to as “chicks.” A lot of women believe it makes us seem immature and undeserving of respect.
Skirt
This archaic slang term baffled some young females as they had never heard it used before. Those familiar with it described it as dehumanizing because it labels women by their article of clothing instead of their person.
Many women commented that it made them think of when women were seen as objects. Some felt it was disrespectful, even when said as a joke. Most felt it was in the past where it belongs.
Bird
This was a term heard most often by women who knew British slang. Many claimed to hate being equated with an animal or hearing it used in place of the word woman.
Some felt it belittles women as being ornamental or inconsequential. Some women stated that it wasn’t necessarily the word that bothered them, but the derogatory way in which it was usually said. All in all, most women would prefer to be called a woman rather than a bird.
Female
Using female as a noun to substitute the word woman is very misogynistic. (Example: “Look at those females”) You’re calling an actual human being only female, which defines her reproductive organs and her ability to have kids.
It takes away her personality, her brain, her social identity as a human. Some women felt that men love to use this word to sound more scientific about women, as if they’re animals or lab rats.
Floozy
Many women said they heard this term used by older generations towards women they deemed too strong or independent. They noted how someone can use the word assuming they know this person’s character without ever knowing who she is.
Others said that when someone uses this word, it often reveals more about them than the target of the insult.
Hag
This sexist slur attacks a woman’s looks and her age. While hag did originate from folklore, witches, and fairy tales, throwing this slur at someone makes you strip the aging woman of her beauty and value to society.
Men who use this disgusting word are punishing women for aging and not conforming to society’s male-dominated ideal of beauty.
Harpy
Women who had been accused of being a harpy said it was most often when they were voicing opinions, setting boundaries or refusing to remain silent. Many women said the term is used to make strong women seem irrational or aggressive. When men behave in the same way, they are often seen as being confident or taking charge.
Piece
Meaning literally just “piece of flesh,” this phrase attempts to degrade an entire woman down to her body. When a man calls a woman this, he’s objectifying her.
He’s placing her in the same category as an award you get or something you can grab. It completely dehumanizes a woman and judges her worth by her appearance.
Dame
Women were conflicted about this one. Some said it reminded them of black-and-white films and mystery novels, while others claimed it sounded patronizing no matter who said it.
Plenty of women mentioned how it makes them feel like you’re speaking about them, not to them. Overall, this word implies antiquated views of women.
Battle-axe
Many people used this term to refer to older female bosses, mothers-in-law or women in positions of power.
Respondents said it implies ridicule toward women who are strong, demanding or won’t put up with nonsense. Others felt that strong men can be respected, but strong women are mocked.
Old lady
A few women we surveyed said they didn’t mind the term when their significant other says it to them lovingly, usually if they’ve been with that partner for many years.
Most women we asked said they didn’t like the term because it can sound as if you are being condescended to or owned. Many brought up how odd it can sound when you introduce your wife or girlfriend to someone as “my old lady” instead of using her name.