virago
- noun
- /vɪˈrɑːɡoʊ/
- Slur
:
virago (literario, ofensivo)
- She was such a joy to him, this innocent, vulnerable, fiery virago who had to always be in control.
Examples
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Everyone in the village recognized her as a virago, not just for her fierce debates but also for her unwavering support of women's rights.
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To be faced by a virago at this hour of the morning.
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31 and (c) the Testesse—the virago, the loud but loyal female, the person who will not allow wrong to go unidentified.
Academic text (1992) -
Despite her intimidating presence, the virago always stood up for the underdog in her community.
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Known as a fierce leader, the virago inspired others to embrace their strength and fight for justice.
Synonyms
1
7.7
A tall strong woman who behaves in a powerful, often fierce way
A woman who fights hard to win in business, politics, or debate
A woman who fights strongly for a cause she believes in
How Courageous
Surface Forms
Etymology
Virago comes from the Latin root vir meaning 'man' and at first meant a woman with a man's strength or bravery, so it can be used to mean a very strong, courageous woman. The same root is in virile ('manly'), which makes the idea of strength behind virago easy to remember.