A spinster, also sometimes referred to as an old maid, is a term for a woman who has never married and is older than what is considered the usual age for women to marry. The term can also imply that a woman is thought to be unlikely to ever marry. This term traditionally has been associated with negative connotations.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Definition: A spinster is an unmarried woman who is past the typical age for marriage in a given society.
- Historical context: Historically, the term carried a negative stigma and societal expectations.
- Modern usage: Today, the term is largely considered outdated and can be offensive, though its basic meaning remains.
The reference information clearly defines a "spinster" or "old maid" as someone who is considered as an unmarried woman who may never get married.
Therefore, a woman who never gets married can be referred to as a spinster.
