Van Dale dictionary adds 'vulvalip,' a win for feminist activists
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Dutch dictionary Van Dale has officially recognized "vulvalip" as a valid term.
- This inclusion is a victory for the feminist activist group Dolle Mina.
- The term replaces "schaamlip" (shame lip), aiming to destigmatize female anatomy.
The prestigious Dutch dictionary Van Dale has officially added the term "vulvalip" to its lexicon, marking a significant linguistic and cultural shift. This move is being celebrated by the feminist activist group Dolle Mina, who have championed the term as a replacement for the more stigmatizing "schaamlip," which translates to "shame lip."
The inclusion of "vulvalip" is seen as a triumph for efforts to destigmatize female anatomy and promote a more neutral and accurate vocabulary surrounding women's bodies. For years, activists have argued that "schaamlip" carries negative connotations, implying shame or something to be hidden, whereas "vulvalip" simply describes the anatomical feature without judgment.
Dolle Mina, known for its provocative and effective campaigns in the 1970s, has continued its legacy of challenging societal norms and promoting gender equality. Their advocacy for "vulvalip" highlights a broader movement towards reclaiming and normalizing discussions about female sexuality and anatomy in a positive and empowering way.
Originally published by De Volkskrant in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.