English

Noun

battle-ax ‎(plural battle-axes)

1. (mostly US) Alternative spelling of battle axe
2. (informal, often pejorative, usually with "old") A domineering and antagonistic woman. UK spelling: battle-axe, battle axe or battleaxe.

   Naturally, she deeply resented having been called an old battle-ax.

Usage notes

Formerly a term of mild opprobrium, "battle-ax" or "old battle-ax" is now sometimes a term of approval or self-identification for an assertive woman.

Translations