Shrew: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about a small insect-eating mammal with a long snout, or, less commonly, to describe a bad-tempered or aggressively assertive woman (the latter usage has negative connotations).

• The garden is home to a tiny shrew that hides under the leaves.
• She was treated like a shrew by her colleagues due to her assertive nature.

Use this word when referring to a small burrowing mammal with velvety fur, or metaphorically for a spy who infiltrates an organization.

• The mole created a network of tunnels beneath the garden.
• There was a mole in the company leaking confidential information.

Refer to this word when describing a small rodent resembling a mouse but with a stouter body, often found in fields or grassy areas.

• The vole made its nest in the tall grass near the stream.
• Farmers often find voles in their fields during the harvest.

This word is typically used to describe a small rodent with a pointed nose, or informally to refer to a timid or quiet person.

• A mouse scurried across the kitchen floor.
• She’s as quiet as a mouse in meetings.

Used to describe a woman who is perceived as scolding and bad-tempered. The term has a negative connotation.

• Everyone was afraid of her; she was known as the shrew of the office.
• He called her a shrew for always criticizing him.

Describes someone who persistently annoys or criticizes, often by repeatedly asking someone to do something. It can refer to either gender, but is commonly used for women. It is derogatory.

• She felt like such a nag, constantly reminding him to clean up.
• Stop nagging me about the dishes.

Refers to a strict, bossy, or belligerent older woman. It generally is used in a critical or negative context.

• The old harridan next door is always yelling at the children playing in the street.
• She turned into a harridan as soon as she became the boss.

Used to describe a woman of great strength, courage, or impressive stature, but can also imply a loud, domineering woman. It can be both positive and negative depending on the context.

• She fought off the attackers like a true virago.
• He was afraid of crossing her; she was a real virago with a temper.