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Gen Z Slang: Girlboss Meaning

What does the Gen Z term "girlboss" mean? How is it used in conversation? Find out with Family Education and learn Gen Z slang today!
Updated: July 31, 2024
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"Girlboss" is a term that denotes a woman who is confident, ambitious, and successful in her career or personal life, often breaking traditional gender norms.

"Girlboss" Origins

The term "girlboss" gained popularity from Sophia Amoruso's 2014 book #GIRLBOSS, which encouraged women to pursue their goals and embrace their self-empowerment.

Examples of Use for "Girlboss"

The following are some ways people might use this term in conversation or messaging:

  • "She’s a real girlboss at work; always stepping up for projects."
  • "We're all about supporting our girlbosses and their ventures."
  • "I love how she handled that meeting; total girlboss energy."

Incorporating "Girlboss" Into Your Vocabulary

How can parents use this term in daily life? Here are some tips!

  1. Encouraging Ambition: Encourage your daughter with, "You go, girlboss! Keep pushing for that promotion."
  2. Highlighting Role Models: When discussing influential women, mention, "Everyone should strive to be a girlboss like Ruth Bader Ginsburg."

Is "Girlboss" Positive or Negative?

"Girlboss" is predominantly positive, celebrating female empowerment and ambition. However, it has also received criticism for being a superficial term that overlooks systemic barriers to success for women.

Tara Gunn

About Tara

Hailing from Canada, Tara is a graduate of Scotland's University of St. Andrews in creative… Read more

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