A woman who is separated from or abandoned by her husband, or historically, an unmarried woman with children.
The origin is disputed; it may derive from 'grass' meaning 'betrayal' or refer to a woman left lying on the grass, or possibly from obsolete meanings of 'grass' as a mistake. The term emerged in the 16th century with derogatory implications.
Grasswidow is a fascinating word because it reflects historical attitudes toward women—it's an insult disguised as description, showing how language can reveal the prejudices of past societies.
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