Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

distaff

noun

ˈdɪstæf

Definition

A tool used in spinning, traditionally associated with women’s work and crafts.

Examples

The artisan deftly worked with the distaff, preparing the fibers for spinning.
In historical contexts, the distaff was a crucial tool used by women to create textiles.

Meaning

The term ‘distaff’ refers to a staff or rod for holding wool or flax fibers in place while they are spun into thread or yarn. It is often symbolically linked to women’s domestic roles in traditional textile production.