
Harridan
Negative Connotation
Harridan has a strongly negative tone, often showing the speaker's disapproval of the woman's behavior.

His mother-in-law's daily complaints turned her image into that of a harridan.
Gender Specific
The term 'harridan' is used exclusively for women, implying a stereotype that should be used cautiously.

The relentless boss was unfairly called a harridan by her disgruntled employee.
Avoid Misuse
Be careful not to misuse 'harridan' to describe any woman who is simply assertive or strong-willed.

Questioning authority does not make her a harridan, it shows she's assertive.
Compare with
FuryHagHarpyMartinetScoldShrewTermagantVirago
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