Womyn (plural noun).
wi-min / wi-men/ ; rhymes with swimmin ; -myn as in fin
Definition: a group of adult female persons who reside in a supportive, close-knit community.
Attested: I was first acquainted with this word upon my arrival to Balch Hall in August 1999, as it was written on a poster welcoming the new female residents on campus.
Example: The timid Sally was surrounded by a friendly group of womyn at her college dorm, which in turn helped her adjust to her new surroundings with ease.
Etymology: Though this term is commonly used in the English language with the suffix, -an, the word in its varied form expresses a sentiment of true feminism. In todays age, when females wish to emphasize their newfound independence and distinctiveness, this term is used because its suffix does not include the letters, m-e-n. Feminists who believe in gender equality and similar opportunities for both sexes, can be heard saying this term, both on and off the Cornell campus. Some females think that this usage is absurd, considering the fact that a spelling alteration is not the true method to obtain gender equality. Some males, on the other hand, find it interesting that they are the cause of this word alteration.
- Randi Dublin