Riformatrice

Riformatrice is the feminine form of the noun riformatore, describing a person who promotes or implements reforms, especially in political, social, or religious contexts. It denotes a female reformer or reformist.

Etymology: The term derives from the verb riformare (to reform) with the agentive suffix -atrice, which marks a feminine actor. The corresponding masculine form is riformatore.

Usage: The word is used in historical writing, biographies, and contemporary discourse to designate women who advocate changes intended to improve institutions, laws, education, or governance. It can describe reformers across diverse movements, including civil rights, educational reform, church reform, and public administration. Like its masculine counterpart, it is not tied to a specific ideology; context determines its connotation.

Grammar: Riformatrice is a feminine singular noun; the plural is riformatrici. It can be used as la riformatrice followed by a name (la riformatrice Maria Rossi) and agrees with any accompanying adjectives or participles.

Related terms: riformatore, riforma, riformismo, riformare.