weaker sex

noun

, Older Use: Sometimes Offensive.

1. the female sex; women (usually used facetiously):

   my life as a member of the weaker sex.

weaker sex

/ ˈwiːkə /

noun

1. the female sex

Sensitive Note

This is a dated term, usually used for humorous effect but sometimes perceived as condescending to women. It reinforces the stereotype of a weak female.

Example Sentences

Smirking, as he usually does when discussing the tiny brain pans of the weaker sex, Vance corrected her.

From Salon

“The smart ones act very feminine and needy,” Trump continued, “but inside they are real killers. The person who came up with the expression ‘the weaker sex’ was either very naïve or had to be kidding.

From Salon

In April 2022, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia trolled feminists by declaring women are the "weaker sex," made from Adam's rib to serve as "our husband's wife."

From Salon

Last year’s Supreme Court confirmation hearings played host to this contention when Republican Congressional representatives upset at the nominee’s refusal to define “woman” took it on themselves to define the term; they came up with “the weaker sex,” “a mother,” and “no tallywhacker.”

From Scientific American

“There are great male characters in it,” Horgan is quick to point out, lest members of the weaker sex fear being unloved, during a Zoom meeting each actor has logged onto.

From Los Angeles Times