old-womanish

American  

[ohld-woom-uh-nish] / ˈoʊldˈwʊm ə nɪʃ /

adjective

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

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Sensitivity

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

Other Word Forms

• old-womanishness
  noun

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Etymology

Origin of old-womanish

First recorded in 1765–75

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

old-womanish

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

From By Birth a Lady by George Manville Fenn

The companionship of Dale's bright youth would keep her from getting old-womanish if anything could.

From The Bat by Avery Hopwood

And I sha'n't wear dowdy, old-womanish dresses to please her, along with other girls of my size that are dressed up in their best.

From Elsie at Nantucket by Martha Finley

Whether her hair was abundant or not no one could tell, for an old-womanish cap with narrow ruffle so covered her head that only a faint blonde aureole could be seen beneath it.

From Miss Theodora A West End Story by Helen Leah Reed

As for the baby with her shrewd old-womanish face, and the sweet smile which spoke a good deal plainer than words, Meg could scarcely keep from kissing her all the time.

From Little Meg's Children by Hesba Stretton

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