noun
- Plural of jezebel; women regarded as wicked, shameless, or morally corrupt (often used as a derogatory term).
- A type of cosmetic case or small decorative box, historically used for holding makeup or jewelry.
Usage: Often capitalized when referring to the biblical figure Jezebel; Considered offensive or derogatory when applied to women; Derived from the biblical Queen Jezebel of Israel
Usage: Archaic or historical usage; Primarily British English
Examples
- The preacher condemned the jezebels who had led the young men astray.
- In Victorian literature, jezebels were often portrayed as dangerous and manipulative.
- She was unfairly labeled a jezebel simply for speaking her mind.
- The antique shop displayed several ornate jezebels from the 18th century.
- Historical accounts painted certain court women as jezebels to justify their downfall.