harridan
UK: ˈhærɪdən | US: ˈhærɪdən
n. a strict, bossy, or unpleasant woman, especially an older one
The word "harridan" emerged in late 17th-century English, likely borrowed from French haridelle (a worn-out horse or nag), metaphorically extended to describe a scolding, shrewish woman. The morpheme "harri" reflects aggression, while "-dan" adds a dismissive, belittling tone, painting a vivid image of a tiresome, domineering figure.
The neighbors avoided the old harridan who yelled at children for stepping on her lawn.
In the novel, the protagonist’s aunt is portrayed as a harridan obsessed with propriety.
She transformed from a charming lady into a bitter harridan after years of loneliness.
The manager’s harridan-like demeanor made the workplace unbearable.
Critics dismissed the politician as a harridan for her abrasive public speeches.