schoolmarm
noun
a female schoolteacher, especially of the old-time country school type, popularly held to be strict and priggish.
schoolmarmish
-
a word derived from
schoolmarm.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He responded with a schoolmarmish reply that he doesn't spend his time "trying to smear other Republicans."
From Salon ● Feb. 10, 2023
Although some people still see him as too moralistic, even schoolmarmish, he has inspired and even won over others who once dismissed him.
From Washington Post ● Jul. 10, 2021
“Who Is This Person?” the presentation said, above a schoolmarmish photo of Warren, before listing her credentials.
From The New Yorker ● Jun. 14, 2019
As schoolmarmish as Four’s attitude has been, it begins to seem sensible when his partner’s carelessness puts them both at risk.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 15, 2019
She had rusty hair knotted in a schoolmarmish bun, and thin, silver-rimmed spectacles attached to her breast pocket with a black elastic.
From "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath
