distaff side

noun

1. the female side of a family ( spear side ).

distaff side

noun

1. the female side or branch of a family Compare spear side

Word History and Origins

Origin of distaff side¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Though they do say that the Cawdors have gipsy blood on the distaff side.

From Project Gutenberg

The jug descended in a Sussex County, Delaware, family—on the distaff side, curiously.

From Project Gutenberg

Aunt Catherine's children were members of the family only on the distaff side, and so were of less importance.

From Project Gutenberg

The sovereign profession among bees and ants is always female, and publicans also descend on the distaff side.

From Project Gutenberg

They inherit Plantagenet blood by direct descent, and Tudor on the distaff side.

From Project Gutenberg