Langimage
English

spinster

|spin-ster|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈspɪn.stər/

🇬🇧

/ˈspɪn.stə/

unmarried woman

Etymology
Etymology Information

'spinster' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'spinnestere,' where 'spin' meant 'to twist fibers into thread.'

Historical Evolution

'spinnestere' transformed into the modern English word 'spinster' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a woman who spins,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an unmarried woman.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an unmarried woman, typically an older woman beyond the usual age for marriage.

She was often referred to as a spinster by her neighbors.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/22 17:52