Bitch
The Journey of a Word

Delve into the history of the word 'bitch', from its humble origins to the complex modern phenomenon it is today.

Karen Stollznow (Author)

9781009392327, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 June 2024

202 pages
22.2 x 14.6 x 1.6 cm, 0.38 kg

'A sparkling and sophisticated examination of one of my favorite vulgarities - and one of the English language's most fraught. I had been waiting for a detailed, book-length account of this word, whose long life is more colorful and fascinating than I even knew. Karen Stollznow was the perfect person to write it!' Amanda Montell, author of The Age of Magical Overthinking, Cultish, and Wordslut

Bitch is a bitch of a word. It used to be a straightforward insult, but today – after so many variations and efforts to reject or reclaim the word – it's not always entirely clear what it means. Bitch is a chameleon. There are good bitches and bad bitches; sexy bitches and psycho bitches; boss bitches and even perfect bitches. This eye-opening deep-dive account takes us on a journey spanning a millennium, from its humble beginnings as a word for a female dog through to its myriad meanings today, proving that sometimes you can teach an old dog new tricks. It traces the colorful history and ever-changing meaning of this powerful and controversial word, and its relevance within broader issues of feminism, gender, race, and sexuality. Despite centuries of censorship and attempts to ban it, bitch has stood the test of time. You may wonder: is the word going away anytime soon? Bitch, please.

Acknowledgements
Introduction: A Bitchin' Word
1. A Female Dog
2. Feminist Bitch
3. Son of a Bitch
4. The B Word
5. Basic Bitch
Conclusion: A Final Bitch
Notes
Index.

Subject Areas: Sociolinguistics [CFB]