beldam

American  

[bel-duhm, -dam] / ˈbɛl dəm, -dæm /

Also beldame

noun

1. an old woman, especially an ugly one; hag.

2. Obsolete. grandmother.

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beldam British  

/ ˈbɛldəm /

noun

1. archaic an old woman, esp an ugly or malicious one; hag

2. an obsolete word for grandmother

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Etymology

Origin of beldam

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, equivalent to bel- “grand-” (from Middle French bel, belle “fine, good-looking”) + dam “mother”; beau, belle, dam ²

Example Sentences

“The beldam swore by her good right hand,” said the tall girl, “but she lied.”

From Literature

The old beldam called him, and thought him, the shrewdest boy that ever lived; but, in truth, she had left him no longer a boy, in aught but size and looks.

From Project Gutenberg

I don't know, I don't know, my chick," rejoined the worthy beldam; "that Pharold is a knowing hand, and always gets more than any one else, work for it how they will.

From Project Gutenberg

To show the beldam daughters of her daughter.

From Project Gutenberg

Obedient to the sound, from far and near, the withered beldams, toothless hags in short petticoats, white linen hoods, and conical high crowned hats, come flocking on flying broomsticks.

From Project Gutenberg