Definition of ms

The abbreviation "Ms." is a title of respect used to address a woman whose marital status is unknown or irrelevant, or one who prefers not to be referred to as "Miss" or "Mrs." The term "Ms." was first used in the late 19th century as a substitute for "Miss" or "Mrs." to avoid assuming a woman's marital status. The term gained popularity in the 1970s with the women's liberation movement, which sought to eliminate the grammatical and cultural distinction between "Miss" and "Mrs." and create a neutral title that women could use without being judged on their marital status. Today, "Ms." is widely used and accepted as a title of respect for any woman, regardless of her marital status. It has also become a symbol of feminist identity and a way for women to assert their independence and autonomy.