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a woman who idealizes a past highly desirable partner and compares new partners unfavorably
What is the origin and meaning of the phrase "alpha widow"?
The slang term alpha widow refers to a woman who remains emotionally attached to a former partner perceived as an "alpha male," often comparing new partners to him and feeling dissatisfied if they do not meet the same standard. The idea comes from online "manosphere" and Red Pill communities in the 2010s, where it was used to describe women who had experienced a relationship with a man considered highly attractive, dominant, or high-status and who struggled to move on afterward. In this context, the "widow" part is metaphorical, suggesting she is still tied to the memory of that relationship, which can affect her ability to form new romantic bonds. While some use the term as a critique of unrealistic expectations in dating, others view it as a reductive stereotype rooted in gendered assumptions.
