Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

harridan

noun
/ˈhær.ɪ.dən/
Definition
A strict, bossy, or belligerent old woman.
Examples
  • She was considered a harridan by her neighbors for her constant complaints about their noise.
  • The harridan scolded the children for playing too loudly in the park.
Meaning
The term is often used to describe a woman who is perceived as being overly aggressive, argumentative, or unpleasant, especially in a domineering manner.
Synonyms
  • Shrew
  • Termagant
  • Vixen
  • Crone
  • Battle-ax