tomboys

A tomboy is a girl who exhibits characteristics or behaviors considered typical of a boy. This can include a preference for activities often associated with boys, such as playing sports, climbing trees, or engaging in rough play. Tomboyishness may also manifest in clothing choices, with a preference for functional, comfortable attire over dresses or traditionally feminine garments. The term is generally used to describe young girls and is often seen as a phase that some children grow out of.

The concept of a tomboy is rooted in societal expectations of gender roles. Historically, boys were encouraged to be active, independent, and assertive, while girls were expected to be more passive, nurturing, and demure. A tomboy deviates from these expectations, demonstrating traits that blur the lines of traditional gender expression. It is important to note that being a tomboy does not imply a lack of femininity, nor does it indicate anything about a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Many individuals who identify as tomboys are cisgender girls who simply enjoy a wider range of activities and expressions than are conventionally prescribed.

The term is not always viewed neutrally and can sometimes carry connotations of being unfeminine or awkward. However, in contemporary society, there is a growing acceptance of diverse gender expressions, and tomboyish traits are increasingly recognized as simply individual preferences rather than indicators of gender nonconformity. The experience of being a tomboy can be influenced by cultural context, with varying degrees of acceptance and understanding across different societies and time periods.