Wise woman: meaning, definitions and examples

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wise woman

 

[ waɪz ˈwʊmən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

person

A wise woman is a female who has a deep understanding and knowledge gained through experience. She is known for her good judgment, sound advice, and ability to make wise decisions.

Synonyms

elder, guru, sage.

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Word Description / Examples
wise woman

A wise woman is often used to describe a woman who has gained extensive knowledge and insight through life experiences. This term is usually used in personal, spiritual, or traditional contexts.

  • The village respected her as a wise woman who could offer sage advice on various matters
sage

A sage is someone who is recognized for their profound wisdom, often in philosophical or spiritual matters. This term is used to denote someone who has a deep understanding of life and is able to offer thoughtful advice.

  • The philosopher was considered a sage whose teachings influenced many generations
elder

An elder refers to an older person who is respected for their wisdom and experience, often within a community or family. This term is commonly used in cultural, religious, or social settings.

  • The elders of the tribe gathered to discuss important issues affecting their community
guru

A guru is someone who is regarded as a spiritual teacher or guide, particularly in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Eastern religions. It is also used informally to refer to an expert in a certain field.

  • She sought the guidance of a guru to understand the deeper meanings of life and spirituality

Examples of usage

  • She sought counsel from the wise woman before making an important decision.
  • The wise woman's words of wisdom resonated with everyone in the village.
Context #2 | Noun

mythology

In folklore and mythology, a wise woman is often depicted as a magical or mystical figure with supernatural powers. She is revered for her ability to foresee the future, heal the sick, and offer guidance to those in need.

Synonyms

enchantress, sorceress, witch.

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Word Description / Examples
wise woman

Used positively to refer to a woman who has extensive knowledge and experience, often in traditional medicine or community wisdom.

  • The village relied on the wise woman for herbal remedies.
  • She sought advice from the wise woman about her future.
witch

Commonly used to refer to a woman who practices witchcraft, often with a negative connotation. Historically used in accusations and folklore.

  • Villagers accused her of being a witch and feared her.
  • She dressed up as a witch for Halloween.
enchantress

Used to describe a woman who uses charm or magic to influence others, often in a captivating or alluring manner.

  • The hero could not resist the enchantress's spell.
  • She danced like an enchantress, mesmerizing everyone.
sorceress

Refers to a woman who practices sorcery, often in a mythological or fantasy context. It generally implies the use of powerful, sometimes dark, magic.

  • The sorceress cast a powerful spell to protect the kingdom.
  • Legends spoke of a sorceress who controlled the elements.

Examples of usage

  • Legends say that the wise woman lived deep in the forest, where she practiced her ancient rituals.
  • The villagers believed that only the wise woman could lift the curse that plagued their land.

Translations

Translations of the word "wise woman" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mulher sábia

🇮🇳 बुद्धिमान महिला

🇩🇪 weise Frau

🇮🇩 wanita bijak

🇺🇦 мудра жінка

🇵🇱 mądra kobieta

🇯🇵 賢い女性 (かしこいじょせい)

🇫🇷 femme sage

🇪🇸 mujer sabia

🇹🇷 bilge kadın

🇰🇷 현명한 여자 (hyeonmyeonghan yeoja)

🇸🇦 امرأة حكيمة

🇨🇿 moudrá žena

🇸🇰 múdra žena

🇨🇳 智慧的女人 (zhìhuì de nǚrén)

🇸🇮 modra ženska

🇮🇸 vitur kona

🇰🇿 ақылды әйел

🇬🇪 ბრძენი ქალი (brdzeni qali)

🇦🇿 ağıllı qadın

🇲🇽 mujer sabia

Etymology

The term 'wise woman' has roots in ancient cultures where women were revered for their wisdom, intuition, and healing abilities. Throughout history, wise women played crucial roles in communities, offering guidance, herbal remedies, and spiritual support. In some societies, they were seen as healers, while in others, they were feared as witches. Despite the varying perceptions, the archetype of the wise woman endures in folklore, literature, and popular culture as a symbol of feminine wisdom and power.