1. the process of making something more feminine in character, appearance, or quality
2. the process by which a person adopts or develops feminine characteristics, identity, or social role
Usage: often used in gender studies and psychology
3. a social or cultural trend toward increased female participation, influence, or representation in a field or institution

Examples

• The feminization of nursing in the 20th century changed the profession significantly.
• Critics argued that the feminization of certain industries reflected broader social shifts.
• The study examined the feminization of poverty and its economic impacts.
• Fashion designers often discuss the feminization of traditionally masculine styles.
• Sociologists track the feminization of higher education enrollment over recent decades.
• The feminization of caregiving roles has been a topic of ongoing debate in family studies.