Pronunciation: [sˈɪstɹən] (IPA) 
The word "Sistren" is a variant spelling of the word "Sisters," which is used to refer to a group of female siblings or members of a religious order. The spelling of "Sistren" is unique because it is not the standard spelling of the word. It is derived from the archaic form of the word, which was commonly used in the past. The phonetic transcription of "Sistren" is /ˈsɪstrən/ with the stress on the first syllable.
Sistren is a derivative of the word "sister" and is primarily used in Caribbean and African-American English, particularly within the Rastafarian culture. It refers to a group of female friends or compatriots who share a strong bond, often characterized by mutual support, empowerment, and sisterhood. The term embraces the idea of solidarity among women, recognizing and celebrating their collective strength and unity.
Sistren can also be used to describe an organization or collective consisting of women committed to social justice, equality, and activism. In this context, it often emphasizes their shared goals and dedication to uplifting marginalized communities, specifically women. Sistren can be seen as a manifestation of a feminist ideology, not only focusing on gender equality but also recognizing the intersecting barriers faced by women of different racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Furthermore, the term "sistren" can extend beyond biological siblings, as it includes chosen sisters, close friends, or any women bonded by a sense of spiritual connection. It serves as a term of endearment and acknowledgment of the familial and nurturing relationships among women.
Ultimately, "sistren" encapsulates the idea of sisterhood, unity, and empowerment among women, fostering a sense of belonging, support, and collective action in both personal and sociopolitical contexts.
The word "sistren" is considered a variant of the word "sisters" and has its roots in Old English and Middle English. In Old English, the word "sistre" was used to refer to female siblings, but over time, it fell out of common usage. However, "sistren" continued to exist as a variant in some dialects of Middle English and later on in regional dialects. The term was also influenced by the Middle English plural ending "-en" used for certain words, hence giving rise to "sistren". Ultimately, "sistren" came to be used as a gender-neutral collective noun, particularly in feminist and women's literature, to refer to a group of women or female-identified individuals.
