old-womanish

[ ohld-woo m-uh-nish ]
/ ˈoʊldˈwʊm ə nɪʃ /

adjective

Sometimes Offensive. having characteristics considered typical of an old woman, as excessive fussiness or timidity.

Origin of old-womanish

First recorded in 1765–75

usage note for old-womanish

This term is sometimes perceived as insulting because it reinforces stereotypes.

OTHER WORDS FROM old-womanish

old-wom·an·ish·ness, noun

Example sentences from the Web for old-womanish

  • Surely my old-womanish babbling has not upset you like this!

    By Birth a Lady |George Manville Fenn
  • He makes no old-womanish outcry of alarm and expresses no exaggerated wrath.

    Charlotte Bronte and Her Circle |Clement K. Shorter
  • There are tears in her voice—simple, old-womanish, grandmotherly tears.

  • Poor little darling, the girls made fun of it because it was so ugly and old-womanish.

    Little Maid Marian |Amy E. Blanchard