Dictionary
1distaff
noun dis·taff \ˈdis-ˌtaf\
plural distaffs \-ˌtafs, -ˌtavz\
Definition of DISTAFF
1
a : a staff for holding the flax, tow, or wool in spinning b : woman's work or domain
2
: the female branch or side of a family
See distaff defined for kids ADVERTISEMENT
Illustration of DISTAFF
Origin of DISTAFF
Middle English distaf, from Old English distæf, from dis- (akin to Middle Low German dise bunch of flax) + stæf staff
First Known Use: before 12th century
Other Anthropology Terms
Rhymes with DISTAFF
2distaff
adjective
: of, relating to, or being a woman
Full Definition of DISTAFF
2
: female 1 <distaff executives>
See distaff defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of DISTAFF
circa 1633
Learn More About DISTAFF
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up distaff? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).