Monthlies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. A routine, regular payment made monthly, often for subscriptions or services
  2. the hormonal cycle experienced by females that occurs monthly
  3. a publication released on a monthly basis, typically covering various topics or themes

Etymology: The term "monthlies" is a colloquial expression that refers to the monthly menstrual cycle experienced by individuals who menstruate. This contemporary slang emerged from a need to discuss menstruation in a more casual and less stigmatized manner. The word itself is a straightforward combination of "monthly," which indicates something that occurs once a month, and the plural suffix "-ies," which denotes multiple instances or types of something. "Monthly" traces its roots back to the Old English word "mōnað," meaning "month," which itself is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*mēnōþs." This term is closely related to cognates in other Germanic languages, such as the Old High German "mānod" and Old Norse "máni," both referring to the lunar cycle that influences the passage of months. The English language adopted "monthly" in the 14th century, initially used in various contexts, including calendars and payments, to signify regular occurrences on a monthly basis. The evolution of "monthlies" reflects a broader cultural shift towards destigmatizing conversations around menstruation. As awareness and advocacy for menstrual health have increased, so has the use of euphemistic and informal language to address what was once considered taboo. While the first recorded usage of "monthlies" as a reference to menstruation is somewhat difficult to pinpoint, it is likely that the term began to gain traction in the late 20th century alongside movements promoting open discussions about women's health and rights. In the context of modern vernacular, this term encapsulates not just the biological aspect of menstruation but also the social implications surrounding it. As a linguistic artifact, "monthlies" serves to remind us of the ongoing conversation about health, gender, and the importance of breaking down barriers associated with discussing natural human processes. In celebrating the normalization of such discussions, the word contributes to a more inclusive and understanding society.

Synonyms: periodicals, journals, magazines, publications, issues