shrew
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
Her sharp tongue made some people call her a shrew, though it’s not a kind word.
natural
Look! There is a shrew under the rock.
basic
The shrew eats insects to survive.
basic
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