Traditionally used to describe a woman’s behavior, but can be viewed as outdated and sexist. The old play featured a character with a shrewish disposition.
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Negative Connotation
Implies a severe and critical nature, often considered rude when used to describe someone. He regretted calling his boss shrewish in a moment of frustration.
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Cultural Stereotype
The term reflects a stereotype and may not be accurate or fair in modern context. In the movie, the stereotype of a shrewish mother-in-law was played for laughs.