Traditionally the word Rabbi means teacher. Traditionally it was a male who obeyed mitzvot, knew Jewish law (halacha) and tradition, resolved halakhic disputes, and instructed the community. The ordination of women is a hot debate with in the Jewish community. Orthodox Jews still do not allow this, although it has been practiced for some time among the Reform movement, with the first female receiving her ordination in 1972.
The Reconstructionist Movement ordained women from the start and within the Conservative movement the issue has caused so much controversy that some Talmudic scholars from the JTC left the organization to start their own institution.
Some good controversy surrounds this subject. Looks like in some movements if the women want it they are going to have to stir up the waters and make the changes.