The word for today is…
crone (noun) – 1. (Derogatory) An old woman considered to be ugly; a hag.
- A woman who is venerated for experience, judgment, and wisdom.
Source : The Free Dictionary
Etymology : Late 14th century, “a feeble and withered old woman,” in Middle English a strong term of abuse, from Anglo-French carogne “carrion, carcass; an old ewe,” also a term of abuse, from Old North French carogne, Old French charogne, term of abuse for a cantankerous or withered woman, also “old sheep,” literally “carrion,” from Vulgar Latin *caronia ..
Perhaps the “old ewe” sense is older than the “old woman” one in French, but the former is attested in English only from 16th century Since mid-20th century the word has been somewhat reclaimed in feminism and neo-paganism as a symbol of mature female wisdom and power.
If you enjoyed this BFD word of the day please consider sharing it with your friends.