Spinster - Wikipedia In law, a 'spinster' refers to an unmarried woman who had reached her majority This was, in part, to reinforce the right to own property outside of marriage
Where does the term spinster come from? | Merriam-Webster A single woman who is old enough to be married but isn't—and isn't likely to get married—is sometimes called a spinster The word has an old-fashioned and dated feel to it, and because of that it can carry a whiff of impoliteness in certain circumstances
Understanding the Term “Spinster”: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Meaning . . . “Spinster” is a historically loaded term for an unmarried woman, once used widely but now often considered outdated or even offensive Its connotations have shifted over time, with modern society favoring respect and positivity around women’s choices to remain single
Spinster - Etymology, Origin Meaning - Etymonline Originating in the late 14th century from spin + feminine suffix -stere, "spinster" means a woman who spins and later an unmarried woman beyond typical marrying age
What did Spinster mean? | 360 On History In the 1300s, a spinster was simply a woman who spun thread or yarn — a common occupation that could be done from home, no expensive looms needed In legal documents, people were often identified by their job — just like Smith, Baker, or Tanner, and women who spun yarn were called Spinster