"Femme fatale" is a French term meaning "fatal woman." It refers to an attractive and seductive woman who uses her charm and allure to manipulate or deceive men, often leading to their downfall. The concept has been popular in literature, film, and popular culture, particularly during the film noir era of the 1940s and 1950s.

Some famous examples of femme fatales in cinema include:

1. Rita Hayworth as Gilda in "Gilda" (1946)

2. Barbara Stanwyck as Phyllis Dietrichson in "Double Indemnity" (1944)

3. Kim Novak as Madeleine Elster in "Vertigo" (1958)

4. Jeanne Moreau as Jane in "Elevator to the Gallows" (1958)

In modern times, the archetype has evolved and appears in various forms across different media. While the traditional femme fatale was often portrayed negatively, contemporary interpretations sometimes offer more complex and nuanced portrayals of these characters.