Here's why:
* Historical Usage: The word "broad" has been around for centuries, with its initial meaning referring to something wide or expansive. It was used to describe things like swords, rivers, or even a woman's shoulders.
* Evolution of Slang: Slang terms often evolve organically, with their meanings shifting over time. It's likely that "broads" gradually transitioned from a neutral descriptive term to a derogatory one.
* Lack of Official Records: There isn't a definitive record of when the term became specifically associated with women in a disparaging way.
However, some clues point to the late 19th or early 20th century:
* Emergence of Slang: This was a period when a lot of slang words and phrases were developing, many of which were associated with societal changes and evolving attitudes.
* Shifting Gender Roles: The early 20th century saw a changing landscape for women's roles in society, and this could have contributed to the use of "broads" as a derogatory term.
It's important to note that using the word "broads" is generally considered offensive and should be avoided.