Menstruation is a natural biological process involving the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterine lining. This event is commonly referred to as a “period.” This article explores the linguistic origins of the term and how it came to describe this fundamental human experience.
The Word’s Journey Its Linguistic History
The word “period” traces its roots back to ancient Greek, from “periodos” (περίοδος). This Greek word is a compound of “peri” (περί), meaning “around,” and “hodos” (ὁδός), meaning “way” or “path.” “Periodos” originally conveyed a sense of “a going around,” “a circuit,” or a “cycle.”
As the term evolved, it passed into Latin as “periodus,” retaining the meaning of a “recurring portion” or “cycle.” It also acquired the sense of a “complete sentence” in Latin. From Latin, the word transitioned into Old French as “periode” in the 14th century, where it signified a “length of time” or a “phase.” The English term “period” emerged in the early 15th century, initially referring to a course or extent of time, or a cycle of recurrence. Its specific application to menstruation began in the early 1800s, likely as a shortened form of “period of menstruation.”
Why “Period” Fits the Cycle
The etymological journey of “period” reveals its appropriateness as a descriptor for menstruation. The menstrual cycle is a recurring biological event. This cyclical nature aligns with the word’s ancient meaning of “a going around” or “a circuit.”
The term captures the regularity of the process, which typically spans 21 to 35 days, with an average of 28 days. This defined interval establishes a clear “period” of time within the body’s reproductive rhythm. The fundamental concept of a recurring interval remains constant, reinforcing the word’s suitability. The shedding of the uterine lining marks a distinct conclusion to one phase and the beginning of another.
Other Names for Menstruation
While “period” has become the predominant term in English, menstruation has been, and continues to be, referred to by a wide array of other names, reflecting cultural attitudes and historical contexts. Medical terminology often uses “menses” or “catamenia” to describe the menstrual flow. Historically, Old English terms like “monaðblot,” meaning “month-blood,” or “flewsa,” relating to “flowing,” were used.
Colloquially, English offers numerous euphemisms, such as “Aunt Flo,” “Time of the Month,” “on the rag,” and “Shark Week.” These informal terms often serve to avoid direct discussion of menstruation, sometimes due to discomfort or cultural taboos. Across different cultures, diverse and often colorful expressions exist, including “Strawberry Week” in Germany, “Communists in the funhouse” in Denmark, or “The English have landed” in an older French context. These varied names highlight the universal experience of menstruation while also showcasing the diverse ways societies have chosen to address or allude to it.