Plural of harridan; multiple strict, bossy, or bad-tempered women.
Simple plural of harridan, with the -s suffix. The term became increasingly common in 17th-18th century English literature and social commentary.
Literature is full of 'harridans'—Shakespeare's shrews, Dickens's domineering landladies. These characters were so compelling that the word stuck around for centuries as a go-to insult for women who refused to be quiet or subservient.
Plural form of harridan, carrying the same 17th-century gendered slur. Applied collectively to demean groups of women, amplifying the misogynistic framing.
Avoid; use gender-neutral alternatives when discussing behavior or personality in groups.
["domineering people","stern elders","assertive individuals","the text referred to harridans (derogatory term for outspoken women)"]
Women called harridans were exercising leadership or boundary-setting in male-dominated contexts. Honor their agency rather than repeating the slur.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.