landlady
UK: ˈlændleɪdi | US: ˈlændleɪdi
n. a woman who owns and rents out property, such as houses or apartments
n. (historically) a woman who owns and manages an inn or tavern
The word "landlady" combines "land" (from Old English "land," meaning "ground" or "property") and "lady" (from Old English "hlǣfdīge," meaning "female head of a household"). Originally, it referred to a woman who owned and managed land or an estate. Over time, it narrowed to describe a female landlord who rents out property. The term reflects societal roles where women, like men, could hold property rights, though historically, such authority was less common.
The landlady raised the rent by 10% this year.
She became a landlady after inheriting her parents' apartment building.
The landlady was strict about noise after 10 PM.
In the 18th century, many taverns were run by a landlady.
The tenants complained to the landlady about the broken heater.