dowager
/ˈdaʊədʒər/
noun
- A woman who holds property or a title from her deceased husband, especially a widow who continues to use her late husband's title.
- As a dowager, she retained the title of countess and managed the estate.
- The elderly dowager was respected by the community for her charitable work.
- The dowager still lived in the family mansion after her husband's death.
- An older woman who is dignified, wealthy, and influential, often in a traditional or conservative way.
- The dowager of the local art society always wore elegant hats to the gallery openings.
- She was known as the dowager of the family, making all the important decisions.
- The dowager sat at the head of the table, commanding everyone's attention.