harridan
3
9.9
- noun
- /ˈhærɪdən/
- Offensive
- The old harridan scolded the children for playing too loudly in the yard.
- an old harridan
Examples
-
If only that old harridan were a shade more maternal and sympathetic. "I know that doctor," said Sally after a pause.
Fiction book (1995) -
I'm miss harridan, the headmistress.
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So, miss harridan, why are you here?
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If some fat harridan is going to sing, I must go.
-
Have a nice day, miss harridan.
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What do you suppose, you old harridan?
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Miss harridan says it's preparing me for my future.
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Sorry, miss harridan, they just barged right in.
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Bother Ms. Newsome, that old harridan.
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This old harridan with the twitching cheek was beginning to try the Benedictine's patience.
Fiction book (2002)
Synonyms
6
8.8
A cruel woman who treats people very badly
1
8.6
A woman who is very cruel to other people
1
8.9
A woman who is fierce, frightening, and tries to control others
Antonyms
How Harsh
Surface Forms
Etymology
Harridan probably comes from an old French word haridelle, which meant 'old mare' or 'old horse'. A helpful way to remember it is to think of a 'nag' — both a horse and a person who scolds — so harridan now means a strict, unpleasant woman who nags or scolds.