Dikke Van Dale adds vulval lips to dictionary

The Dikke Van Dale will be adding the term vulval lips to its dictionary. This decision was announced by the publishing house and follows years of campaigns by the activist groups Dolle Mina's and Schaamteloos. These groups advocate for the use of an 'anatomically correct name' instead of the existing term labia.

According to the activist groups, the term labia is experienced as stigmatizing. They point out that the word 'shame' carries a negative connotation and argue that there is nothing wrong with the body part it refers to. By including vulval lips in the dictionary, they aim to break these stigmas.

The addition of vulval lips to the Dikke Van Dale is seen by the activist groups as an important step in normalizing the language around female genitalia. They believe this will contribute to a more positive and realistic image of the body.

In addition to the inclusion of vulval lips, the term labia will remain in the dictionary. This means that both terms will coexist. However, the activist groups are determined to promote the use of vulval lips in order to change the discourse around female anatomy.

The Dikke Van Dale is a reference point for many in the Dutch language, but its influence on the evolution of language cannot be underestimated. Previously, words like scrotum, glans, and testicle have been included, and now the anatomically correct term for the labia is joining them.

Language is dynamic, and the inclusion of vulval lips illustrates how societal discussions can lead to changes in written and spoken language. The activist groups continue to emphasize the importance of inclusive and accurate language use.