Are you looking for a word to describe a confident woman that projects her personality onto others in a positive manner? You could call her a ‘girlboss.’
This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression ‘girlboss’ refers to a woman that appears confident and has authority over others. A girlboss acts independently and doesn’t listen to other people’s criticism of her actions. She has complete confidence in her actions and speaks with an air of superiority to others around her.
Young women will look up to a girlboss as a role model. They provide inspiration for other women to achieve their life goals. Typically, a girlboss describes a woman that financially successful. She may be a business owner or someone with authority in a market or over a cultural group.
A girlboss is a woman with the drive to succeed at all costs. She’s willing to put her career and reputation on the line to chase her dreams. A girlboss motivates and inspires those around her, pushing them to achieve their life and financial goals.
Example Usage
“Look at Sassy. She’s such a girlboss. She just takes charge of the situation, and everyone seems to listen to what she says.”
“Wow, Cindy, you’re such a girlboss. I wish I could have the same confidence as you when I’m talking to other people.”
“Our daughter is such a girlboss. She acts like she’s the queen of the nursery school.”
“Wow, Sally is a real girlboss. Look at how she stays calm under pressure and acts like she’s in control of everything around her.”
Origin
The expression “Girlboss” originates from entrepreneur Sophia Amoruso. Sophia is the founder of the fast-fashion site “Nasty Gal.” The word ‘#GIRLBOSS’ is the title of her 2014 autobiography.
Amoruso’s autobiography describes her rags-to-riches story, providing inspiration to young women that want to succeed in life. The book earned her a huge social media following, and she has a legion of fans that look up to her for inspiration and guidance in their lives.
Ironically, Sophia's company, Nasty gal, filed for bankruptcy in 2015 due to a ‘toxic workplace culture.’
Phrases Similar to Girlboss
- Boss babe.
- Bitch boss.
Phrases Opposite to Girlboss
- Unconfident.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Girlboss.
Ways People May Say Girlboss Incorrectly
Some people may use the phrase to describe a woman with a bad attitude. While girlboss's act confidently, they aren't arrogant.
Typically, a girlboss is a respected woman in her local community. A girlboss doesn't always have to be employed as a manager or boss over others.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Girlboss
You can use the phrase 'girlboss' when describing a woman who has authority over others. She appears successful and owns a company or has a job where she oversees employees. You can use the phrase when referring to a confident woman that seems in control of a situation.
'Girlboss' suits social and professional use. You could use it at home to describe how your daughter acts like she's the boss of the household. You can use it at work to describe a female manager using authority. Girlboss refers to women and girls of all ages that display 'alpha' behavior.