distaff

adjective

Definition of distaffnext
as in petticoat

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of distaff The league leaned into its distaff audience by naming each team after trailblazing women. — Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026 And then Grisebach uses that distaff twist once again, to comment more broadly on the patriarchal nature and gendered violence of power structures corrupted by historical conflict. — Jessica Kiang, Variety, 22 May 2026 An Elm Drive victory would give trainer Phil D’Amato a very successful weekend on the distaff side of the ledger. — Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Sep. 2021 Even if a separate, distaff canon is built, the atmosphere against which it’s being constructed is, gradually, becoming more integrated. — Wesley Morris, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for distaff
  1. female
  2. ladylike
Adjective
  • The four female students were identified and disciplined, according to officials at San Marcos High School and the Santa Barbara Unified School District, who did not release the students’ names or detail the discipline.
    — Terry Castleman Follow, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026
  • By September, Michelle had returned to the campaign to support her stepson, asking her network of female supporters to help elect him.
    — Alessandra Freitas, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of female
Adjective
  • From polished and ladylike to more relaxed and directional, the skirt felt like the foundation of the spring wardrobe, signaling a shift toward more intentional, feminine dressing.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026
  • The ladylike shoes, also known as ballet pumps, have taken on new life as a runway and celebrity favorite in recent years.
    — India Roby, Glamour, 21 July 2026
Definition of ladylike

Browse Nearby Words

dissuading
distaff
distain
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Cite this Entry

“Distaff.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/distaff. Accessed 7 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on distaff

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about distaff

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