distaff

/ˈdɪstæf/
adjective
  1. Relating to women or the female side of a family; feminine.
    • The novel explores the distaff perspective on historical events.
    • The distaff relatives gathered to share stories about their grandmother.
    • She inherited the distaff tradition of baking the family's secret recipe.
noun
  1. The female side of a family or group; women considered as a group, especially in relation to lineage or tradition.
    • Her distaff ancestors were known for their skill in weaving and storytelling.
    • In many cultures, the distaff line is responsible for preserving domestic traditions.
    • The family heirloom was passed down through the distaff side for generations.
  2. A stick or spindle used in spinning wool or flax into thread, traditionally associated with women's work.
    • The museum displayed an ancient distaff used by medieval spinners.
    • She learned to wrap the flax around the distaff before starting to spin.
    • The distaff was a common tool in households before the Industrial Revolution.
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