stepdames
/ˈstɛpˌdeɪmz/
noun
- The plural of stepdame; an old-fashioned or literary term for stepmothers.
- Historically, stepdames had a difficult role in blended families.
- In fairy tales, stepdames are often portrayed as cruel and jealous.
- The novel described the hardships faced by children with unkind stepdames.