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
  • Each female cone is borne in an upright position and is commonly violet-blue before maturing to brown.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Oct. 2026
  • DeMellier’s founder, Mireia Llusia-Lindh, tapped the residential architect Nicolas Schuybroek to create a space that felt like a stylish home with vintage furniture, photography and architecture books and original work by female artists.
    — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 23 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

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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 28 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on distaff

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about distaff

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