common scold

noun

1. (in early common law) a habitually rude and brawling woman whose conduct was subject to punishment as a public nuisance.

Word History and Origins

Origin of common scold¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

On Wednesday, Bowser expressed commitment to reworking the city’s criminal code, which includes outdated laws such as banning games with balls on city streets and being a “common scold.”

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The overhaul would modify existing statutes that use outdated language, such as references to “common scolds,” which are individuals who disturb the peace by arguing with their neighbors.

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In the colonial United States and Britain, women who talked too much and started fights were labelled “common scolds” – recommended punishments included making them wear gags or repeatedly dunking them in water to simulate drowning.

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It is thus that I would see America, not as schoolmistress or common scold to the nations, but as chosen leader by example, rather than by authority.

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Ducking-stool, a stool or chair in which common scolds were formerly tied and plunged into water.

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