Hag: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in a negative context to describe an old woman who is considered ugly or unpleasant. It has a pejorative connotation.

• The villagers feared the old hag who lived in the forest.
• She was insulted when they called her a hag.

Can be used in both negative and neutral contexts. Negatively, it may refer to a woman who practices harmful magic. Neutrally, it can just refer to a female practitioner of magic.

• They accused her of being a witch and practicing dark arts.
• She learned the ways of a witch, brewing potions and casting spells.

Refers to an old woman, typically one who is maybe seen as wise, but often the term carries a somewhat negative connotation.

• The crone sat by the fire, telling stories of old times.
• He sought the advice of the ancient crone who lived on the hill.

Typically used in fantasy or mythology to describe a female who practices magic. The term doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation.

• The sorceress cast a powerful spell over the kingdom.
• With her knowledge of ancient magic, the sorceress was revered by many.

Typically used in folklore or fairy tales to describe an old and possibly frightful woman, often with magical powers. It can be derogatory if used to describe a real person.

• The children were afraid to go into the forest because they believed a hag lived there

Refers to a very old woman, often depicted as a withered and ugly figure in mythology or fairy tales. The term is old-fashioned and can be insulting if used to describe a real person.

• The village believed that the crone who lived on the hill could foresee the future

Used to describe a strict, bossy, or belligerent old woman. This term has a negative connotation and is used to criticize someone's behavior.

• The children dreaded visits from their harridan of a neighbor who constantly shouted at them

Describes a woman who is sharp-tongued, nagging, or difficult to deal with. It is derogatory and often used to criticize a woman's temperament.

• Nobody wanted to work with her because she was known as a shrew who could make anyone's life miserable