The term applewives is not a common word in everyday language. It is a term that has been used in different contexts, and it has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In this article, we will explore the various definitions of applewives, its origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Applewives can be defined as women who sell apples or who are married to apple sellers. In some contexts, it is used to describe women who are married to orchard owners or farmers who specialize in growing apples.
Origin
The origin of applewives is not clear, but it is believed to have originated from the old English word “æppelwif,” which means a woman who sells apples. The word has been in use since the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term applewives is not commonly found in modern dictionaries. However, the Oxford English Dictionary defines applewives as “a woman who sells apples.” The Merriam-Webster dictionary does not have an entry for applewives.
Associations
In literature, applewives have been used as characters in different contexts. For example, in Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth,” the witches refer to themselves as “weird sisters” and “secret, black, and midnight hags,” but they are also referred to as “the three applewives.” In this context, the term is used to describe the witches’ association with nature and the supernatural.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of applewives include apple sellers, orchard owners, farmers, and fruit vendors.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of applewives, but the term can be contrasted with women who are not involved in the apple-selling business.
The same root words
The root words of applewives are “apple” and “wife.” Apple is a fruit that is widely cultivated and consumed around the world, while wife refers to a married woman.
Example Sentences
- The applewives were busy selling their produce at the market.
- The orchard owner’s wife was known as the queen of the applewives.
- The three witches in Macbeth were also referred to as the three applewives.
- The farmer’s wife was not an applewife, but she helped with the harvest every year.