harridan
3
9.9
- noun
- /ˈhærɪdən/
- Offensive
:
arpía
- 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
4
8.8
A cruel woman who treats people very badly
1
8.9
A woman who is fierce, frightening, and tries to control others
1
8.6
A woman who is very cruel to other people
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.