Shrew Meaning in English
word
Definition
A shrew is a small, mouse-like animal with a pointed nose. The word can also describe a woman who is very argumentative or bad-tempered (old-fashioned and often offensive).
Usage & Nuances
Animal meaning is neutral and scientific; the negative, old-fashioned meaning for a quarrelsome woman is now considered offensive and is rare in modern speech, found mostly in literature (like Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew'). Use carefully.
Example Sentences
A shrew is smaller than a mouse but looks similar.
basic
Look! There is a shrew under the rock.
basic
The shrew eats insects to survive.
basic
Her sharp tongue made some people call her a shrew, though it’s not a kind word.
natural
Did you know the shrew is one of the world’s smallest mammals?
natural
She was tough, but calling her a shrew crossed the line.
natural