Harridan

usgb/ˈhærɪdən/
noun

An angry and unpleasant woman.

She transformed into a harridan after years of hardship.
Visual representation of "harridan" - An angry and unpleasant woman.

Often appears as...

  • old harridan
  • the harridan commanded

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "harridan"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

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

Illustration for Negative Connotation
His mother-in-law's daily complaints turned her image into that of a harridan.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Gender Specific

The term 'harridan' is used exclusively for women, implying a stereotype that should be used cautiously.

Illustration for Gender Specific
The relentless boss was unfairly called a harridan by her disgruntled employee.
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Avoid Misuse

Be careful not to misuse 'harridan' to describe any woman who is simply assertive or strong-willed.

Illustration for Avoid Misuse
Questioning authority does not make her a harridan, it shows she's assertive.
Visual representation of the word "Harridan"

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