What is femcel?

A "femcel" is a largely online subculture and identity adopted by women who feel they are involuntarily celibate ("incel") due to their perceived unattractiveness or social ineptitude. It is the female counterpart to the more established "incel" subculture, although it is less prevalent and has distinct characteristics.

• Definition: Femcels believe they are unable to form romantic or sexual relationships despite desiring them. This perceived inability is attributed to factors they cannot control, such as physical appearance or inherent flaws in their personality. Definition
• Origins: The term emerged online, mirroring the incel community's vocabulary. It gained traction on platforms where women could discuss their feelings of isolation and lack of romantic success.
• Key Beliefs: Femcel ideology often revolves around the idea that society unfairly judges women based on beauty standards and that they are "doomed" to be alone because they do not meet these standards. They may also express resentment towards women they perceive as more attractive or sexually successful ("Stacys"). Key%20Beliefs
• Differences from Incel Culture: While sharing the core concept of involuntary celibacy, femcel communities often differ from incel communities in their expressions of frustration and anger. Femcels are less prone to violence than incels.
• Online Spaces: Femcel discussions primarily occur on online forums, social media groups, and imageboards. Online%20Spaces
• Criticism and Controversy: Like incel culture, femcel ideology has been criticized for promoting negativity, self-pity, and sometimes misanthropy. Some argue it reinforces harmful stereotypes about women and perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards. Criticism%20and%20Controversy