Definition

A woman who is often seen as angry, unpleasant, and harsh in her behavior or attitude.

Example

The harridan yelled at the children for playing too loudly.

Conversation

Did you hear what Mrs. Thompson said in class today?

Yeah, she can be such a harridan sometimes!

I know, right? It feels like she's just waiting to scold someone.

Exactly! I think we all tiptoe around her just to avoid the drama.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Harridan → The word originates from the French *haridelle*, meaning a worn-out horse or a nag. It has evolved to describe a scolding, ill-tempered woman, often with connotations of being overbearing or shrewish.

Memory Tip

Think of the French word for a worn-out horse, 'haridelle', to remember that a 'harridan' refers to a nagging or scolding woman.

Visually Confused Words