schoolmarm

/ˈskuːlˌmɑːrm/

Definitions

1. noun

A woman who teaches at a rural school, often seen as stern and authority figure.

“The schoolmarm stood at the front of the classroom, her eyes scanning the room for any signs of misbehavior.”

2. noun

A strict or authoritarian woman, especially in a social or professional context.

“The politician was criticized for being a schoolmarm, always trying to dictate what people should do.”

Synonyms

  • matriarch
  • schoolmistress
  • schoolteacher

Antonyms

  • free spirit
  • rebel