stepdame en · NOUN
Etymology
From Middle English stepdame; equivalent to step- + dame.
Meanings
-
(archaic) A stepmother.
'To be sure, Maud; maybe you are right; a stepdame is a risk, and I ought to have asked you first what you thought of it; and upon my honour,' she continued merrily but kindly, observing that my eyes, I know not exactly from what feeling, filled with tears, 'I'll never again advise your papa to marry, unless you first tell me you wish it.'
1865, Sheridan Le Fanu, Uncle Silas:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| stepdames | Number=Plur | lexicographic |