adjective

1. designating or of the sex that produces ova and bears offspring: biological symbol, ♀
2. of, characteristic of, or suitable to members of this sex; feminine
3. consisting of women or girls
4. designating or having a hollow part shaped to receive a corresponding inserted part (called male): said of pipe fittings, electric sockets, etc.
5. Bot.
   1. having pistils, archegonia, or oogonia and no stamens or antheridia
   2. designating or of a reproductive structure or part containing large gametes (eggs) that can be fertilized by smaller, motile gametes (sperms)
   3. designating or of any structure or part that produces fruit after it is fertilized

Etymology: ME, altered after male < femelle < OFr < L femella, dim. of femina, a woman < IE base *dhē-, to suck, suckle > L felare, to suck, filius, son, fetus, progeny, Gr thēlazein, to suckle, thele, nipple

noun

1. a female person; woman or girl
2. a female animal or plant