virago
UK: vɪˈrɑːɡəʊ | US: vɪˈreɪɡoʊ
n. a domineering, violent, or bad-tempered woman
n. (archaic) a woman of great stature, strength, or courage
virago = vir<man> + ago<feminine suffix>
- vir (from Latin vir, meaning "man")
- ago (a Latin feminine suffix used to form nouns, often implying association or resemblance)
Etymology Origin:
The word virago originates from Latin, where it literally meant "a woman who behaves like a man" (vir = man + ago = feminine suffix). Initially, it carried a neutral or even positive connotation, describing a heroic or warrior-like woman (e.g., in the Vulgate Bible, Eve is called virago as a counterpart to Adam). Over time, the term shifted to a pejorative sense, emphasizing aggression or unwomanly behavior, reflecting societal biases against assertive women.
The queen was feared as a virago who ruled with an iron fist.
In medieval tales, the virago was often portrayed as both a warrior and a threat.
His aunt, a true virago, intimidated everyone with her sharp tongue.
The term "virago" reveals how language can weaponize gender norms.
Though labeled a virago, she was simply a woman unafraid to speak her mind.