Resembling or having the characteristics of a hag; ugly, wrinkled, or witch-like in appearance.
Compound of 'hag' + 'like,' where 'like' functions as a suffix meaning 'resembling' or 'having qualities of,' a productive word-formation pattern in English.
The word 'haglike' reveals how appearance-based language can be harsh—history is full of descriptions of older women labeled 'haglike,' often unfairly, simply because they didn't match beauty standards.
'Haglike' applies the gendered slur 'hag' as an adjective, perpetuating the association of women (especially older, independent, or unconventional ones) with ugliness, malevolence, or unworthiness.
Avoid. Describe specific, relevant qualities without invoking a gendered slur as the basis for comparison.
["describe specific features or behaviors neutrally"]
The 'hag' archetype erases the agency and humanity of women who refused conventional constraints; resisting this language restores their dignity.
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